Boise State vs. Nevada is a matchup that always brings excitement to college football fans. Whether you're a die-hard Broncos supporter or a passionate Wolf Pack follower, this rivalry has a rich history filled with memorable moments. Did you know that Boise State's famous blue turf, often called "The Blue," has been a significant advantage for the Broncos? Meanwhile, Nevada's "Pistol Offense" has revolutionized college football strategies. Both teams have produced NFL talent, adding to the game's allure. From thrilling last-minute victories to record-breaking performances, this rivalry never disappoints. Ready to learn more about these two powerhouse teams? Let's dive into 25 fascinating facts about Boise State vs. Nevada!
Boise State vs. Nevada: A Rivalry to Remember
Boise State and Nevada have a storied history on the football field. Their matchups are always thrilling, filled with unforgettable moments and intense competition. Here are some fascinating facts about this rivalry.
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First Meeting: Boise State and Nevada first faced off in 1971. Since then, their games have become a staple of college football excitement.
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Historic Comeback: In 1990, Boise State made a remarkable comeback from a 24-point deficit to win 30-24. This game remains one of the most memorable in the rivalry's history.
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The Kellen Moore Era: Kellen Moore, Boise State's legendary quarterback, never lost to Nevada during his college career from 2008 to 2011.
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The 2010 Thriller: The 2010 game is often cited as one of the greatest in college football history. Nevada upset Boise State in overtime, ending the Broncos' hopes for a perfect season.
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Longest Winning Streak: Boise State holds the longest winning streak in the series, with 10 consecutive victories from 2002 to 2011.
Memorable Moments and Records
The rivalry has produced numerous memorable moments and record-breaking performances. Here are some highlights.
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Highest Scoring Game: The highest-scoring game between the two teams occurred in 2007, with Boise State winning 69-67 in four overtimes.
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Colin Kaepernick's Impact: Nevada's Colin Kaepernick was a game-changer. In 2009, he led Nevada to a 27-21 victory, showcasing his dual-threat abilities.
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Boise State's Dominance: Boise State has dominated the series overall, with a significant lead in the win-loss record.
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First Overtime Game: The first overtime game between these teams happened in 1997, with Boise State emerging victorious 36-35.
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Record Attendance: The 2010 game in Reno set a record for attendance at Mackay Stadium, with over 30,000 fans witnessing the epic showdown.
Coaching Legends
Both teams have been led by some of the most respected coaches in college football. Their strategies and leadership have shaped the rivalry.
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Chris Petersen: Boise State's Chris Petersen is one of the most successful coaches in the rivalry, with a 5-1 record against Nevada.
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Chris Ault: Nevada's Chris Ault, known as the "Godfather of the Pistol Offense," had a significant impact on the rivalry, especially with his 2010 victory.
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Bryan Harsin: Bryan Harsin continued Boise State's winning tradition, maintaining a strong record against Nevada during his tenure.
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Jay Norvell: Jay Norvell has brought new energy to Nevada, aiming to shift the balance of power in the rivalry.
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Dirk Koetter: Dirk Koetter, another successful Boise State coach, had a perfect record against Nevada during his time with the Broncos.
Iconic Players
The rivalry has showcased some of the best talent in college football. These players have left a lasting legacy.
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Doug Martin: Boise State's Doug Martin, known as the "Muscle Hamster," had standout performances against Nevada, including a 152-yard game in 2011.
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Rishard Matthews: Nevada's Rishard Matthews had a memorable game in 2010, with 10 receptions for 172 yards and a touchdown.
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Jay Ajayi: Boise State's Jay Ajayi was a force to be reckoned with, rushing for 219 yards and three touchdowns in the 2014 game.
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Brock Forsey: Brock Forsey, a Boise State running back, had a record-setting game in 2002 with 269 rushing yards and five touchdowns.
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Cody Fajardo: Nevada's Cody Fajardo continued the tradition of dual-threat quarterbacks, making significant contributions in multiple games against Boise State.
Unforgettable Games
Certain games in the Boise State vs. Nevada rivalry stand out for their drama and impact. These matchups are etched in the memories of fans.
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2006 Shootout: The 2006 game was a high-scoring affair, with Boise State winning 38-7, showcasing their offensive prowess.
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2012 Defensive Battle: In 2012, Boise State's defense shined, holding Nevada to just 21 points in a 27-21 victory.
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2015 Blowout: Boise State dominated the 2015 game, winning 41-14, demonstrating their superiority on both sides of the ball.
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2018 Nail-Biter: The 2018 game was a nail-biter, with Boise State narrowly escaping with a 31-27 win.
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2020 Pandemic Game: The 2020 matchup was unique due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited fans in attendance. Boise State won 30-20, adding another chapter to the rivalry.
Final Whistle
Boise State vs. Nevada has always been a thrilling matchup. From record-breaking games to memorable moments, this rivalry never disappoints. Boise State's blue turf and Nevada's strong defense make each game a unique experience. Fans eagerly await these clashes, knowing they'll witness high-energy plays and intense competition. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this rivalry offers something for everyone. The history, passion, and excitement surrounding these games keep us coming back year after year. So, next time Boise State and Nevada face off, grab your snacks, settle in, and enjoy the show. This rivalry is more than just a game; it's a celebration of college football at its finest.
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