Boise State Broncos Football: A Winning Tradition

The Broncos' blue-collar mentality and iconic blue turf make them a college football powerhouse

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Boise State Broncos football team has become a cultural phenomenon in Idaho, consistently punching above their weight and captivating fans with their exciting brand of football. From their humble beginnings in the 1930s to their rise to national prominence under coaches like Dirk Koetter, Dan Hawkins, Chris Petersen, and Bryan Harsin, the Broncos have built a winning tradition that has earned them a loyal fanbase and a reputation as a giant-killer in the world of college football.

Why it matters

Boise State's success on the gridiron has not only brought pride to the city of Boise and the state of Idaho, but it has also challenged the traditional power dynamics in college football. The Broncos' ability to compete with and beat the best teams in the country, despite their non-Power Five conference status, has inspired underdog stories and shown that a team's size and resources are not the only factors that determine success.

The details

The Broncos' rise to prominence began in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, with the hiring of coach Dirk Koetter in 1998 marking a turning point. Koetter laid the foundation for success, leading the Broncos to consistent winning seasons and establishing a winning culture. But it was his successor, Dan Hawkins, who elevated the program to national prominence, guiding the team to an undefeated 2006 season and a stunning Fiesta Bowl victory over Oklahoma.

  • The Boise State football program traces its roots back to 1933, when the school was known as Boise Junior College.
  • Dirk Koetter was hired as the Broncos' head coach in 1998, marking a turning point for the program.
  • Dan Hawkins took over as head coach in 2001 and led the Broncos to unprecedented success, including an undefeated 2006 season and a Fiesta Bowl victory over Oklahoma.
  • Chris Petersen and Bryan Harsin have continued the Broncos' winning tradition, with the team consistently earning conference championships and bowl game appearances.
  • The iconic blue turf at Albertsons Stadium was originally installed in 1986 and has become a symbol of the Broncos' unique identity.

The players

Kellen Moore

The winningest quarterback in college football history, Moore led the Broncos to unprecedented success during his tenure. His intelligence and accuracy made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Ryan Clady

An All-American offensive tackle, Clady went on to have a successful NFL career, protecting quarterbacks for years.

Doug Martin

A powerful and elusive running back, Martin was a key contributor to the Broncos' offensive success.

Leighton Vander Esch

A linebacker known for his athleticism and hard-hitting style, Vander Esch quickly became a star in the NFL.

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What’s next

The Boise State Broncos will continue to focus on recruiting top talent and developing players who can contribute to the team's success. The coaching staff is committed to maintaining the program's high standards and building on its legacy of excellence.

The takeaway

Boise State's success on the football field has not only brought pride to the city of Boise and the state of Idaho, but it has also challenged the traditional power dynamics in college football. The Broncos' blue-collar mentality and iconic blue turf have made them a unique and beloved program, inspiring underdog stories and proving that a team's size and resources are not the only factors that determine success.