Early Years: The Foundation of Boise State Football
Boise State University began its football program in 1933, but it wasn't until the 1970s that the team started gaining national attention. The early days were marked by a series of quarterbacks who laid the groundwork for future success.
The 1970s and 1980s: Paving the Way
During the late 1970s and into the 1980s, Boise State began to establish its identity. Quarterbacks like John Friesz and Donnel Pumphrey played pivotal roles in the program's growth.
- John Friesz (1988-1991): Friesz was a standout quarterback who led the Broncos to their first Division I-AA playoff appearance in 1988. He was known for his strong arm and ability to make plays under pressure. His success set the stage for future quarterbacks at Boise State.
- Donnel Pumphrey (1989-1992): Following Friesz, Pumphrey continued to elevate the program's status. His leadership and athleticism helped Boise State become a competitive force in the Big Sky Conference.
These early quarterbacks not only helped the team on the field but also built a culture of excellence that would be essential for the program's future success.
The Rise to Prominence: 1990s to Early 2000s
The 1990s marked a significant turning point for Boise State football. Under the guidance of head coach Pokey Allen, the Broncos transitioned to a more competitive level, culminating in a successful run in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Key Quarterbacks of the Era
- Ryan Dinwiddie (2001-2003): Dinwiddie was instrumental in Boise State's rise to national prominence. He led the Broncos to a 12-1 record in 2002 and a win in the Humanitarian Bowl, earning MVP honors. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions made him one of the best quarterbacks in school history.
- Jared Zabransky (2004-2006): Zabransky is perhaps the most iconic quarterback in Boise State history. He led the team to a perfect 12-0 season in 2006, culminating in a thrilling victory over Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl. This game featured the famous "Statue of Liberty" play, which is still celebrated by fans today. Zabransky's leadership and charisma helped solidify Boise State's status as a national contender.
These quarterbacks not only showcased their individual talents but also contributed to the overall success of the program, helping to establish Boise State as a force in college football.
National Recognition: The Mid-2000s
The mid-2000s were a golden era for Boise State football, with the program achieving unprecedented success on the national stage. The quarterback play during this period was critical in maintaining the team's momentum.
The 2006 Fiesta Bowl and Beyond
After the historic 2006 season, Boise State continued to attract talent at the quarterback position.
- Kellen Moore (2008-2011): Moore is arguably the most successful quarterback in Boise State history. He finished his career with a remarkable 50-3 record, becoming the winningest quarterback in NCAA Division I history. Moore's ability to dissect defenses and his poise in high-pressure situations led the Broncos to multiple BCS bowl games, including another Fiesta Bowl victory in 2010. His contributions to the program cannot be overstated, as he helped elevate Boise State to a perennial national contender.
- Joe Southwick (2011-2013): Following Moore, Southwick stepped into the starting role and continued the tradition of successful quarterback play. Under his leadership, the Broncos won the Mountain West Conference title in 2012. His experience and understanding of the game ensured that Boise State remained competitive, even as they transitioned to a new conference.
Recent Developments: The 2010s to Present
As Boise State moved into the 2010s and beyond, the quarterback position continued to be a focal point for the program.
Emerging Talents and New Challenges
- Brett Rypien (2015-2018): Rypien became the starting quarterback and continued the tradition of excellence at Boise State. He broke several school records, including career passing yards and touchdowns. Rypien led the Broncos to the Mountain West Conference Championship in 2017 and earned the title of MVP in the championship game. His performance solidified his legacy as one of the program's greats.
- Hank Bachmeier (2019-2022): Bachmeier took over the reins in 2019 and showcased his talent as a dual-threat quarterback. He displayed remarkable poise and competitiveness, leading the Broncos in several key matchups. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs kept Boise State competitive in the Mountain West.
As the program navigated the complexities of a changing college football landscape, the quarterbacks of the 2010s played crucial roles in maintaining Boise State's reputation as a strong contender.
Legacy and Impact
The history of Boise State quarterbacks is not just about individual accomplishments; it’s a testament to the program's commitment to excellence. Each quarterback has contributed uniquely to the team's identity and success.
What Makes Boise State Quarterbacks Stand Out?
- Leadership: Boise State quarterbacks have consistently exhibited strong leadership qualities, which is vital in a team sport. Their ability to rally teammates and perform under pressure has been a hallmark of the program.
- Innovation: The Broncos have often embraced innovative offensive schemes, allowing quarterbacks to thrive in a dynamic environment. This has attracted top talent and facilitated the development of players into NFL-ready prospects.
- Winning Culture: The success of Boise State quarterbacks has created a culture of winning that permeates the entire program. This culture continues to attract recruits who aspire to uphold the legacy established by their predecessors.
Conclusion
The history of Boise State quarterbacks is a rich tapestry woven from the achievements of numerous players who have contributed to the program's growth. From the early days of John Friesz to the modern era with Brett Rypien and Hank Bachmeier, each quarterback has left a legacy that has shaped Boise State football. As the program looks to the future, the foundation laid by these quarterbacks will undoubtedly continue to inspire new generations of players and fans alike. Boise State's commitment to excellence at the quarterback position remains a cornerstone of its identity and a key to its ongoing success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the most successful quarterback in Boise State history?
Kellen Moore is widely regarded as the most successful quarterback in Boise State history, finishing his career with a record of 50-3 and leading the team to multiple bowl games, including a victory in the 2010 Fiesta Bowl.
What milestones did Kellen Moore achieve during his time at Boise State?
Kellen Moore set several milestones during his tenure, including becoming the NCAA all-time leader in wins by a starting quarterback and holding numerous school records for passing yards, touchdowns, and completion percentage.
How did Boise State's quarterback play evolve after Kellen Moore?
After Kellen Moore, Boise State saw a transition with quarterbacks like Joe Southwick and Brett Rypien, who continued the trend of successful passing offenses, with Rypien breaking several of Moore's records during his time at the university.
What impact did the 2006 Fiesta Bowl have on Boise State quarterbacks?
The 2006 Fiesta Bowl victory, led by quarterback Jared Zabransky, significantly raised the profile of Boise State football and paved the way for future quarterbacks by showcasing the program's ability to compete on a national stage.
Who are some notable Boise State quarterbacks in the 2020s?
In the 2020s, notable quarterbacks include Hank Bachmeier, who was a key player for the team before transferring, and Taylen Green, who has shown promise as a dual-threat quarterback and is expected to lead the team in the coming seasons.
