Utah State University Aggies Take Home The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Trophy

“The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl belongs to the Aggies” said Coach Gary Andersen as he accepted the trophy, a crystal bowl loaded with Idaho potatoes, during the award presentations following the game. After scoring 28 points in the fourth quarter, the Aggies won their second-ever bowl game by defeating the Toledo Rockets 41-15. [caption id="attachment_13924" align="alignright" width="283" caption="Spuddy Buddy rallied with fans during the trophy presentations after the game."][/caption] "Both the Aggies and Rockets played a great game and should be extremely proud of their performance in Boise and throughout the entire season,” said Frank Muir, President and CEO, Idaho Potato Commission (IPC). “I want to thank all the industry sponsors for their support.  Not only does the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl give recognition to one of Idaho’s most important commodities, the potato, it also gives these young athletes an opportunity to play in a nationally recognized bowl game.  This experience will be one of the highlights of not only their college careers, but probably their lives as well.” More than 29,000 college football fans weathered the cold to watch the second bowl game of the season at Bronco Stadium in Boise, Idaho.  It was also televised live on ESPN for those not able to attend the game. Outside the stadium, the Great Big Idaho Potato Truck made its last appearance of the year and it was as popular as ever.  A signature wall was set up in front of the Truck and for every signature collected the IPC donated $1.00 to the Boise Meals On Wheels chapter.  This non-profit that delivers meals everyday of the year to homebound seniors will receive a check for $2,500. The Idaho Grower Shippers Association (IGSA) also leveraged the game to help those less fortunate.  The IGSA donated three potatoes to the Idaho Food Bank's Eastern Idaho branch on behalf of each fan who attended the game. Over 4,000 pounds of potatoes will be donated. In addition to the potatoes, the IGSA made a $5,000 cash donation to the food bank. Beyond Boise, the Mr. Food Test Kitchen helped promote the game by creating a downloadable e-cookbook filled with more than 30 mouthwatering tailgating recipes.  Tens of thousands of spud lovers have downloaded the e-cookbook and viewed the recipes.