Early Years of Boise State Football
Boise State football began in 1933, but it wasn't until the 1960s that the program began to develop a competitive edge. The early quarterbacks were instrumental in establishing the foundation for future success.
1960s to 1980s: Building the Foundation
- 1968-1970: The Broncos began to gain traction with the leadership of quarterbacks like John D. Smith and Jim McMillan. These players helped lead the team to its first winning seasons and laid the groundwork for future teams.
- 1980s: This decade saw the emergence of Mike Coughlin, who became a prominent figure in Boise State's early success. He played a key role in the Broncos' transition from a junior college program to a four-year institution. Under Coughlin’s leadership, the team secured its first conference championship.
The Rise to Prominence
The 1990s marked a turning point for Boise State football, as the program began to gain national recognition. This era introduced several quarterbacks who would make significant contributions.
1990s: Key Quarterbacks
1. Scott Linehan (1989-1992): Linehan was a standout quarterback who set numerous school records, including passing yards and touchdowns. His strong performance helped elevate Boise State's status within the Big Sky Conference.
2. Jon Neuharth (1993-1996): Following Linehan, Neuharth continued the tradition of strong quarterback play. He led the team to multiple playoff appearances, showcasing his leadership and skill.
3. Bart Hendricks (1997-2000): Hendricks was a particularly noteworthy figure, as he became the first quarterback in school history to lead the Broncos to a bowl game. He broke several records during his tenure, including the most career touchdown passes.
The Breakthrough: 2000s and the Emergence of a Powerhouse
The 2000s were a defining decade for Boise State football, culminating in a national spotlight following their memorable 2007 Fiesta Bowl victory. This era was characterized by an influx of talent at the quarterback position.
2000-2010: Notable Quarterbacks
- Jared Zabransky (2004-2006): Zabransky is perhaps best remembered for his pivotal role in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl. His performance in that game, particularly the iconic hook-and-lateral play, solidified his legacy. Zabransky ended his college career with impressive statistics and led the team to multiple conference championships.
- Kellen Moore (2008-2011): Moore is arguably the most celebrated quarterback in Boise State history. With a record of 50 wins and just 3 losses as a starter, he became the winningest quarterback in NCAA history at the time. Moore's precision passing and leadership propelled the Broncos to several BCS bowl games, and he earned numerous accolades, including being a finalist for the Heisman Trophy in 2010.
Impact of Quarterbacks on Team Success
The success of Boise State during this period can be attributed to several factors, but the quarterback position was undoubtedly critical. Some key points include:
- Winning Culture: The presence of elite quarterbacks helped cultivate a winning culture, instilling confidence in the entire team.
- Offensive Innovation: Coaches like Chris Petersen implemented innovative offensive schemes that maximized the strengths of their quarterbacks, leading to high-scoring games and exciting football.
- National Recognition: The success of these quarterbacks brought national attention to Boise State, attracting recruits and elevating the program's profile.
2010s: Transitioning Leadership and Continued Success
The 2010s saw a new wave of quarterbacks stepping into the spotlight, continuing the tradition of excellence established by their predecessors.
2010-2019: New Era of Quarterbacks
1. Joe Southwick (2011-2013): Taking over from Moore, Southwick faced the challenge of maintaining the program's high standards. He led the Broncos to a bowl victory in 2012 and impressed with his poise and decision-making.
2. Brett Rypien (2015-2018): Rypien continued the legacy of successful Boise State quarterbacks by breaking several of Moore's records. He became the first Bronco to throw for over 10,000 yards, showcasing his ability to lead the team in high-pressure situations.
3. Hank Bachmeier (2019-present): As the next in line, Bachmeier has shown flashes of brilliance and potential. His ability to adapt to different offensive schemes and lead the Broncos has kept the program competitive in the Mountain West Conference.
Boise State Quarterbacks in the NFL
Many Boise State quarterbacks have successfully transitioned to the professional level, further emphasizing the program's ability to develop talent.
Notable NFL Quarterbacks
- Kellen Moore: After an impressive college career, Moore signed with the Dallas Cowboys and has served as both a backup quarterback and a coach. His knowledge of the game and leadership has made him a valuable asset in the NFL.
- Brett Rypien: Rypien, who went undrafted in 2019, signed with the Denver Broncos and has since made appearances in several games, demonstrating the talent cultivated at Boise State.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Boise State Quarterbacks
The Boise State quarterbacks history is a testament to the program's commitment to excellence and its ability to produce high-caliber players. From the early days of the program to its current status as a national contender, the quarterbacks have played a pivotal role in shaping the identity and success of Boise State football. The legacy of players like Kellen Moore, Jared Zabransky, and Brett Rypien will continue to inspire future generations of quarterbacks and fans alike.
As the program looks to the future, it stands on the shoulders of these giants, ready to build on a rich history that has redefined what it means to be a Bronco. The journey of Boise State quarterbacks is far from over, and the next chapter is waiting to be written.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first notable quarterback in Boise State history?
The first notable quarterback for Boise State was John Fries, who played in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Which Boise State quarterback had a significant impact during the 2006 Fiesta Bowl?
Quarterback Jared Zabransky had a significant impact during the 2006 Fiesta Bowl, leading Boise State to a victory over Oklahoma.
What records did Kellen Moore set during his time at Boise State?
Kellen Moore set numerous records, including the most career wins by a starting quarterback in NCAA Division I history and a remarkable touchdown-to-interception ratio.
How many seasons did Kellen Moore play as the starting quarterback for Boise State?
Kellen Moore played four seasons as the starting quarterback for Boise State from 2008 to 2011.
Which quarterback led Boise State to an unbeaten season in 2010?
Kellen Moore led Boise State to an unbeaten season in 2010, finishing with a perfect 12-0 record.
Who was the starting quarterback for Boise State during their 2014 Fiesta Bowl victory?
The starting quarterback for Boise State during their 2014 Fiesta Bowl victory was Grant Hedrick.
What was notable about Boise State's quarterback play in the 1990s?
In the 1990s, Boise State had several successful quarterbacks, including Bart Hendricks, who set multiple school records and led the team to its first bowl game appearance.
Who succeeded Kellen Moore as the starting quarterback at Boise State?
Joe Southwick succeeded Kellen Moore as the starting quarterback at Boise State in 2012.
