What Is 2011 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl

Overview

The 2011 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl was the 15th edition of the college football bowl game held annually in Boise, Idaho. It featured a matchup between the Mid-American Conference (MAC) champion Ohio Bobcats and the Utah State Aggies from the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), both teams seeking their first bowl win in over four decades.

This game marked a significant milestone for both programs, with Utah State ending a 13-year bowl drought and Ohio aiming for its first bowl victory since 1968. Played at Bronco Stadium on the campus of Boise State University, the event showcased not only competitive football but also the quirky tradition of awarding a 1,500-pound Idaho potato truck to the winning team’s coach.

• December 17, 2011 was the official date of the game, making it one of the earlier bowl games in the 2011–2012 postseason schedule.
• The Ohio Bobcats entered the game with a 10–3 record, having won the MAC East Division but losing the conference championship.
• Utah State Aggies finished the regular season 7–5, their first winning record since 1997, under head coach Gary Andersen.
• The final score was Ohio 24, Utah State 23, decided by a failed two-point conversion attempt by Utah State in the final minutes.
• Attendance reached 22,231, one of the higher turnouts in the bowl’s history at the time, reflecting growing national interest.

How It Works

The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl operates as an NCAA-sanctioned Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) postseason game, typically matching teams from the MAC and Mountain West or WAC. It is known for its unique sponsorship by the Idaho Potato Commission and family-friendly festivities.

• Game Format: The game follows standard NCAA football rules, with four 15-minute quarters and standard overtime procedures if needed. It is played at Bronco Stadium, which has a capacity of approximately 32,000.
• Broadcast Network: The 2011 edition aired on ESPN, reaching a national audience and contributing to increased visibility for both schools and the bowl itself.
• Team Selection: The MAC champion or highest-ranked available team faces a WAC or Mountain West representative, with tie-ins adjusted based on conference agreements and bowl availability.
• Prize Tradition: The winning head coach receives a 1,500-pound potato truck filled with Idaho potatoes, a lighthearted nod to the state’s agricultural identity.
• Player Awards: Individual honors include MVP awards for offense and defense, often influencing postseason recognition and NFL draft considerations.
• Postseason Impact: A win improves a team’s final record, enhances recruiting appeal, and provides valuable experience for young players.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of key statistics and outcomes from the 2011 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl:

The game was tightly contested throughout, with Ohio relying on a balanced offensive attack and strong special teams. Utah State led 23–21 late in the fourth quarter but failed on a two-point conversion after a touchdown, sealing their narrow defeat. Ohio’s defense held firm on the final drive, preserving the one-point victory.

Why It Matters

The 2011 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl had lasting implications for both programs and the broader landscape of mid-major college football. It highlighted the growing competitiveness of non-power conference teams on the national stage and boosted morale and recruiting for both Ohio and Utah State.

• Ohio’s 11–3 record marked the best season in program history at the time, elevating national recognition.
• Utah State’s appearance ended a 13-year bowl drought, signaling a program resurgence under Gary Andersen.
• The close score demonstrated the parity in FBS football, challenging the dominance of power-five conferences.
• ESPN’s broadcast reached millions, increasing exposure for both schools and their athletic departments.
• The game contributed to Boise’s reputation as a premier college football destination beyond just Boise State.
• The potato truck tradition became a viral sensation, boosting Idaho’s agricultural marketing efforts nationally.

Ultimately, the 2011 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl was more than just a postseason game—it was a symbol of perseverance, regional pride, and the evolving nature of college football beyond the traditional powerhouses.