The stage is set for an electrifying showdown in the 2024 Fiesta Bowl as Penn State vs. Boise State takes center stage. This highly anticipated New Year’s Eve clash will determine which team advances to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff (CFP) bracket, bringing them one step closer to the National Championship.
Penn State vs. Boise State: Road to the Fiesta Bowl
Penn State enters the Fiesta Bowl with a 12-2 record, showcasing some of their best football in recent weeks. The Nittany Lions cruised past SMU in a dominant 38-10 victory in the opening round of the playoffs. Their success has been powered by a robust rushing attack, surpassing 180 rushing yards in three straight games, and a formidable defense led by standout defensive end Abdul Carter.
Boise State, fresh off their Mountain West title and a bye in the opening playoff round, boasts a well-rounded team led by Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty. Jeanty has had a historic season with 2,497 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, putting him within reach of Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record. Quarterback Maddux Madsen has also been a consistent performer with 2,714 passing yards and 22 touchdowns, while the Broncos’ defense has terrorized opponents with 51 sacks this season.
Key Players to Watch
Penn State
Drew Allar: The Nittany Lions’ quarterback has thrown for 3,021 yards, 21 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. While he wasn’t heavily relied upon in the win over SMU, his ability to step up in critical moments will be key.
Abdul Carter: The defensive end is the anchor of Penn State’s pass rush, making him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
Boise State
Ashton Jeanty: With a chance to break records, Jeanty’s performance could be the deciding factor in this game.
Maddux Madsen: The quarterback has been a reliable leader for the Broncos, with only three interceptions this season.
Fiesta Bowl Matchup: Offense vs. Defense
The game will feature an intriguing battle between Penn State’s physical rushing attack and Boise State’s elite defensive front. Boise State’s pass rush, which ranks among the best in the nation, will look to disrupt Drew Allar, while Penn State’s secondary aims to contain Madsen and Jeanty.
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What’s at Stake
The winner of the Penn State vs. Boise State matchup will advance to the CFP semifinals, where they’ll face either Notre Dame or Georgia in the Orange Bowl. With NFL Draft prospects like Carter and Jeanty on display, this game promises to be a showcase of elite talent and high-stakes football.