Penn State capped off their College Football Playoff Quarterfinal run with a decisive 31-14 victory over Boise State at State Farm Stadium on December 31, 2024. The Nittany Lions decisively overcame early struggles to advance, flashing the talent and depth expected from such a storied program.
The game opened with promising momentum for Penn State, as quarterback Drew Allar demonstrated both skill and poise. Allar connected on two touchdown passes within the first quarter, quickly eleviating any initial doubts about the Nittany Lions’ ability to capitalize on early recruits. With notable throws made to Tyler Warren and Omari Evans, Allar secured his place as the star of the game by finishing with 171 passing yards and three touchdown passes, showcasing his potential for NFL aspirations.
Despite Penn State’s initial 14-0 lead, the Broncos didn’t fold. Following their tragically rocky start, which included two fumbles from their star running back Ashton Jeanty and missed field goals, Boise State found some form. Jeanty's Heisman runner-up status was heavily questioned as he struggled to gain momentum against the dominant tackling from Penn State's defensive line. Eventually, Jeanty managed to contribute with some notable rushing yards, though he fell short of breaking Barry Sanders' legendary single-season rushing record.
While Penn State headed to halftime leading 17-7, the stage was set for the Broncos to mount a significant comeback. After linebacker Abdul Carter left the game with an injury, there were cracks appearing for Penn State’s defensive strategy, and Boise State seized their opportunity. A touchdown pass from quarterback Maddux Madsen to tight end Matt Lauter narrowed the score to 17-14 early in the third quarter, igniting the passionate Boise State fans.
Continued misfires from Boise State, including poor decision-making and three interceptions, proved disastrous as the game progressed. Madsen, attempting to make up for lost opportunities, threw caution to the wind, and his attempts at deep passes often faltered under the pressure of Penn State's tenacious defense.
By the fourth quarter, Penn State shifted back to their ground game, led by running back Nicholas Singleton, who added to the lead with 134 rushing yards. A highlight 58-yard sprint late sealed the game for Penn State, allowing them to pull away decisively.
Reflecting on the game, both teams faced clear challenges. While Drew Allar maintained efficiency with his passes and quarterbacks were compared, Boise State struggled to regain their composure after early errors took them off-course. Coach Spencer Danielson remarked, "Boise State's underdog mentality has been fun, but now the Broncos need to show why they belong.” Such sentiment echoed throughout the supporting narratives, emphasizing the need for Boise State to capitalize on this exposure.
While the Broncos head home with their heads bowed, the Nittany Lions look forward to their next challenge with possible momentum toward the semifinals, which will take place at the Orange Bowl on January 9.
Both teams remain undefeated previously within the Fiesta Bowl setting, marking this dynamic hour as the first official meeting between the two schools. A campaign where Boise State fought valiantly against the odds now yields to their ability to uphold their reputation as formidable competitors, but tonight, it simply wasn’t enough against a determined Penn State.
This thrilling Fiesta Bowl showcased high-level talent and left fans optimistic for the future, hinting at next year's compelling matchups.
Penn State will surely carry on their strong season, but the question remains—can Boise State recover and regroup for another run next year?