BOISE, Idaho – The Fresno State Bulldogs suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl on Monday, falling 28-20 in overtime to the Northern Illinois Huskies on the iconic blue turf of Boise State.
The clash was filled with dramatic twists, including missed opportunities and a relentless back-and-forth battle in the closing moments. Both teams had their chances to take control, but it was the Huskies who capitalized when it mattered most, leaving Fresno State to grapple with a disappointing end to their season.
The Rollercoaster Finish
The fourth quarter and overtime provided a thrilling yet frustrating finale. In regulation, Fresno State held a 13-3 lead at halftime, but NIU clawed back in the second half with 10 unanswered points. A stunning 26-yard touchdown grab by Grayson Barnes highlighted NIU’s comeback, tying the score at 13-13 heading into the fourth quarter.
The Huskies seemed poised to seize the moment late in regulation. Driving deep into Fresno State territory, they opted for a conservative 35-yard field goal on fourth-and-1. In a twist befitting the unpredictable spirit of the Potato Bowl, the kick sailed wide with just over three minutes remaining.
Fresno State had its own chance to win at the buzzer, but a 34-yard field goal attempt missed the mark, sending the game into overtime.
Overtime Drama
Once in overtime, chaos ensued. Both teams scored quickly, showcasing inventive plays and unrelenting effort. However, it was NIU’s defense that sealed the victory. On fourth down, Jordan Hansen broke through Fresno State’s offensive line to deliver a game-ending sack, securing the Huskies’ 28-20 triumph.
A Season to Forget
The loss caps a difficult year for Fresno State, which finishes with a 6-7 record — the program’s first losing season since 2019. It also snapped the Bulldogs’ streak of bowl game victories, marking their first postseason loss since 2014.
In addition to the game’s outcome, Fresno State was dealt a double blow off the field. Starting quarterback Mikey Keene announced just before kickoff that he would transfer to Michigan State for his senior season. The Bulldogs had to rely on a makeshift offense without their leader, and the impact was evident in key moments.
To compound the disappointment, star running back Malik Sherrod announced shortly after the game that he is transferring to Boise State. Sherrod, who rushed for 1,634 yards and 15 touchdowns during his Fresno State career, will now play for one of the Bulldogs’ Mountain West rivals. The irony? Sherrod will face his former team when Boise State hosts Fresno State next season.
A Glimpse at the Future
Despite the bitter end, there are lessons to take from this season and the Potato Bowl experience. Fresno State will need to regroup and retool, especially with the departures of Keene and Sherrod. The Bulldogs’ coaching staff will have to focus on developing new leaders and bolstering key positions to avoid another disappointing campaign.
Meanwhile, NIU can celebrate a victory hard-earned through resilience and grit. The Huskies showed their ability to adapt under pressure and made the plays necessary to emerge victorious in a game filled with unpredictable turns.
Looking Ahead
The loss in Boise marks the end of a chapter for Fresno State, but the program has a chance to bounce back next season. The Bulldogs will undoubtedly look forward to a rematch with Boise State, where Malik Sherrod’s return to face his former teammates will add an extra layer of intrigue.
For now, though, the Bulldogs will have to reflect on a season that fell short of expectations. The Potato Bowl may have delivered unforgettable drama, but for Fresno State, it’s a game they’ll wish they could have back.
