Penn State Defeats Boise State 31-14 in 2024 Fiesta Bowl, Advances to Orange Bowl
In a hard-fought battle, (6) Penn State overcame a strong upset attempt from (3) Boise State to win the 2024 Fiesta Bowl 31-14, securing their spot in the semifinals of the College Football Playoff. Running back Nick Singleton electrified the crowd with a 58-yard touchdown run, while tight end Tyler Warren added two touchdown receptions to seal the victory for the Nittany Lions, who remain undefeated in the bowl game (8-0 all-time).
The Nittany Lions focused on limiting Boise State's star running back Ashton Jeanty, holding him to just 3.5 yards per carry, though he still managed to finish with 104 yards on the ground. Jeanty’s season total now stands at 2,601 yards, 28 yards shy of the single-season rushing record set by Barry Sanders.
With Jeanty somewhat contained, Boise State quarterback Maddux Madsen stepped up, throwing for 304 yards and connecting with tight end Matt Lauter for a 53-yard touchdown. However, two missed field goals from star kicker Jonah Dalmus and three interceptions from Madsen, two of which came late in the game, prevented the Broncos from closing the gap.
Despite a shaky offensive performance, Penn State’s playmakers stepped up when it mattered. Quarterback Drew Allar had some difficult moments, missing seven consecutive passes, but delivered key throws, including a 38-yard touchdown pass to Omari Evans and an 11-yard strike to Warren. The Nittany Lions struggled with offensive consistency but benefitted from the explosive play of their running backs, particularly Kaytron Allen, who rushed for 134 yards and was a constant threat.
Boise State's 14 points were the fewest scored by the team all season, and the result marked their largest defeat of the year.
Key Takeaways:
Penn State’s Offensive Struggles: While the Nittany Lions held off Boise State, their offense wasn’t as efficient as it could have been. Coach Andy Kotelnicki’s decision to abandon the running game at times allowed Boise State to hang around. Running back Kaytron Allen, who averaged nearly 8 yards per carry, should have been more involved, especially given the success he had throughout the game.
Playmakers Shine: Despite the offensive inconsistency, Allen and Warren were crucial to Penn State's victory. Warren’s two touchdown catches and Allen’s 134 rushing yards were instrumental in securing the win.
Boise State’s Resilience: Despite Jeanty’s limited impact and Madsen’s turnovers, Boise State showed resilience, particularly in the passing game. However, missed field goals and penalties ultimately hurt their chances.
With the victory, Penn State advances to the Orange Bowl, where they will face the winner of the Notre Dame vs. Georgia game, scheduled for the Sugar Bowl.
Final Score:
(6) Penn State 31, (3) Boise State 14
Notable Records:
Tyler Warren set a new Penn State single-season record for receptions with 98, surpassing Allen Robinson's 2013 record of 97.
Ashton Jeanty finished the season with 2,601 rushing yards, placing him second on the all-time single-season rushing list.
As Penn State prepares for the Orange Bowl, they’ll look to clean up their inconsistencies and tighten up their game for a tougher test ahead.
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