Boise State's Statue of Liberty play upsets Oklahoma in Fiesta Bowl

Broncos pull off series of trick plays to stun Sooners in 2007 thriller

Mar. 17, 2026 at 11:20am

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In the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, No. 9 Boise State faced heavy underdog status against No. 7 Oklahoma. But the Broncos pulled off a series of trick plays, including the famous "Statue of Liberty" handoff, to rally from a late deficit and stun the Sooners 43-42 in overtime.

Why it matters

Boise State's improbable comeback and use of trick plays in the Fiesta Bowl became an iconic moment in college football history, showcasing the Broncos' creativity and determination as a non-Power 5 program to take down a traditional powerhouse.

The details

Trailing 35-28 with 1:02 left, Boise State faced a fourth-and-18 at midfield. Quarterback Jared Zabransky connected with Drisan James, who lateraled to Jerard Rabb for a 50-yard "Hook and Ladder" touchdown to tie the game. In overtime, the Broncos faced fourth-and-2 from the 6-yard line, and receiver Vinny Perretta took a direct snap and hit Derek Schouman for a TD. Coach Chris Petersen then called for a two-point conversion, and Zabransky executed a perfect "Statue of Liberty" handoff to Ian Johnson, who scored the game-winning points.

  • The 2007 Fiesta Bowl took place on January 1, 2007.
  • Boise State faced a fourth-and-18 with 18 seconds left in regulation.
  • Boise State scored the game-winning two-point conversion in overtime.

The players

Jared Zabransky

Boise State's quarterback who executed the key plays, including the "Statue of Liberty" handoff.

Ian Johnson

Boise State running back who scored the game-winning two-point conversion and proposed to his girlfriend on the sideline after the game.

Chris Petersen

Boise State's head coach who called the gutsy plays that led to the upset victory.

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The takeaway

Boise State's improbable comeback and use of creative trick plays to upset a traditional powerhouse like Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl cemented the Broncos' status as a scrappy, innovative program willing to take risks to achieve success against the odds.