LAS VEGAS — What might have been for Boise State ended with two missed field goals against Nevada that cost the Broncos an expected bid to the Rose Bowl. Now they must overcome crushed expectations and perform like a BCS team against No. 20 Utah to try to set the stage for another magical run next season.
“It’s not like we didn’t try or didn’t try and go out there to win the game,” Boise State wide receiver Austin Pettis said of the 34-31 overtime loss to Nevada. “It’s not like we’re in a bad situation. We still have a nice bowl game.”
A big win over the Utes (10-2), winners of nine straight bowl games, could go a long way toward retaining the national respect Boise State has built. At least the Broncos got a Top-25 opponent tonight in Utah, though oddsmakers still make Boise State (11-1) a 16½-point favorite to win the MAACO Bowl.
“The seniors themselves and the other guys want to make sure we all go out with a bang,” Pettis said.