Boise State football celebrates anniversary with special helmets

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The Boise State Broncos are entering their 40th season on their iconic blue field this year and are uniquely commemorating the anniversary.

The program unveiled its hand-painted helmets for the 2026 campaign, which depict a bronco ready to spring to action on its hind legs in front of a geographical depiction of the state of Idaho.

The other side of the helmet features the number 40. The helmet will be worn by the Broncos during their Sept. 12 home opener against Memphis.

"As an artist, opportunities like this don't come around often. The Blue is one of the most recognizable symbols in college football, and being asked to create a helmet that honors its 40-year legacy was both an incredible privilege and a responsibility," said artist Armando Villarreal on in a statement. "I wanted every brushstroke and every detail to tell the story of how one bold idea transformed Boise State into a brand known around the world. My hope is that when fans see this helmet, they don't just see artwork, but see the history, pride, innovation and the generations of Bronco fans who made The Blue legendary."

Boise State athletic director Jeramiah Dickey spoke about the history of the blue field and what it has meant to the Broncos program.

"Forty years ago, Gene Bleymaier made a bold decision that forever changed the trajectory of Boise State Athletics and created one of the most iconic symbols in all of sports," he said. "The Blue isn't just a football field. It's a symbol of innovation and when you believe in what's possible, you can achieve EPIC! It has welcomed thousands of fans from all 50 states and around the world to experience Boise State, Boise and Idaho on gamedays and non-gamedays.

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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Boise State football celebrates anniversary with special helmets

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