Can Boise State Pull the Upset Against Penn State in the Fiesta Bowl in the CFP Playoffs
The 2024 Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, a College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal, features the No. 6 Penn State Nittany Lions facing the No. 3 Boise State Broncos. The game is scheduled for December 31, 2024, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, with kickoff at 7:30 p.m. ET, broadcast on ESPN.
The big question is did James Franklin get the proverbial monkey off his back against highly ranked teams this season? My guess is no. Boise is not just a rollover team. It will be interesting to see how these teams matchup. Especially with Boise State having the extra time to prepare. It has been almost a month since they last played.
Team Overviews
- Penn State Nittany Lions (12-2): Under head coach James Franklin, Penn State secured a 12-2 record. This includes a decisive 38-10 victory over No. 11 SMU in the CFP first round. The Nittany Lions are known for their robust defense and balanced offensive attack.
- Boise State Broncos (12-1): Led by head coach Spencer Danielson, the Broncos boast a 12-1 record. Their sole loss was a narrow 37-34 defeat to Oregon on September 7. As Mountain West Conference champions, Boise State earned a first-round bye in the CFP. This marks their fourth Fiesta Bowl appearance, having won all three previous matchups.
Key Players
- Penn State:
- Quarterback Drew Allar: Allar has been instrumental in guiding the Nittany Lions’ offense, demonstrating poise and precision in high-stakes games.
- Running Back Nicholas Singleton: Singleton’s explosive running ability provides a dynamic element to Penn State’s ground game.
- Wide Receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith: A reliable target, Lambert-Smith has been pivotal in stretching defenses and creating big-play opportunities.
- Boise State:
- Running Back Ashton Jeanty: Jeanty is a Heisman finalist. He has been the cornerstone of the Broncos’ offense. He is known for his game-breaking runs and versatility.
- Quarterback Maddux Madsen: Madsen’s leadership and playmaking abilities have been crucial in orchestrating Boise State’s offensive schemes.
- Wide Receiver Eric McAlister: McAlister’s receiving skills stand out. His ability to make contested catches makes him a significant threat in the passing game.
Injury Reports
As of December 31, 2024:
- Penn State: The Nittany Lions have reported no significant injuries. All key players are expected to be available for the Fiesta Bowl.
- Boise State: The Broncos have not reported any major injuries. Their roster appears to be at full strength for the upcoming game.
Betting Odds
According to recent odds, Penn State is favored by 11 points over Boise State, with an over/under set at 53.5 points. The moneyline positions Penn State at -472 and Boise State at +359.
Analysis
Penn State’s defense has been a cornerstone of their success, effectively limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities. Their offense is led by quarterback Drew Allar. It has shown the ability to control the game’s tempo. The team balances a potent rushing attack with a reliable passing game.
Boise State’s offense revolves around running back Ashton Jeanty, whose explosive play has been a game-changer throughout the season. Quarterback Maddux Madsen’s efficiency and decision-making complement Jeanty’s prowess, making the Broncos’ offense multifaceted and challenging to defend.
Prediction
Boise State has embraced the underdog role. It boasts a history of success in the Fiesta Bowl. However, Penn State’s depth and defensive strength may prove decisive. Analysts predict a competitive matchup, with some favoring Penn State to secure the victory, potentially covering the spread.
Conclusion
The 2024 Fiesta Bowl presents an intriguing clash between Penn State’s disciplined defense and Boise State’s dynamic offense. Both teams are at full strength. With high stakes on the line, fans can anticipate a compelling and hard-fought contest. They vie for a spot in the CFP semifinals.
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