Idaho Potato Bowl Sets Stage for Utah State vs Washington State Showdown
The college football bowl season is back in motion, and this time the spotlight lands on the blue turf of Boise, Idaho, where Utah State and Washington State are getting ready to square off in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl. It’s one of those afternoon bowl games that might sneak up on you, but once you look closer, there’s a lot going on beneath the surface.
Both teams arrive at this game sitting at identical 6–6 records, which means the motivation is clear. A winning season is still on the table, and that alone gives this matchup some real edge. What makes it even more interesting is that this isn’t just a one-off meeting. Utah State and Washington State are set to become regular opponents soon as part of the new-look Pac-12, so this game almost feels like an early preview of what’s coming next season.
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Washington State is navigating yet another transition period. With head coach Jimmy Rogers set to leave for Iowa State, the Cougars will be guided in this bowl game by defensive coordinator Jesse Bobbit, who steps in as interim head coach. A sense of uncertainty has surrounded the program, but bowl games have a way of bringing teams together, especially when players want to finish strong for each other. Kirby Moore, currently Missouri’s offensive coordinator, is expected to take over the program next season, adding another layer of “what’s next” to this game.
Utah State, meanwhile, is wrapping up the first season under veteran head coach Bronco Mendenhall. There has been some inconsistency along the way, but flashes of promise have been shown. The Aggies’ offense is led by quarterback Bryson Barnes, who has leaned heavily on wide receivers Braden Pegan and Brady Boyd to keep the chains moving. Whether that passing attack can break through Washington State’s defensive strength will likely decide how this game unfolds.
On the other side, Washington State quarterback Zevi Eckhaus brings experience and mobility, and he’s not afraid to scramble when plays break down. Even though the Cougars’ receiving group isn’t especially deep, Eckhaus has found ways to keep the offense competitive. Utah State’s defense, led by linebacker John Miller and defensive back Brevin Hamblin, will be counted on to apply pressure and limit big plays.
So far this bowl season hasn’t delivered many nail-biters, and there’s hope this matchup can buck that trend. With future conference pride, coaching transitions, and a winning record all hanging in the balance, this Idaho Potato Bowl has more flavor than it might appear at first glance.
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