A few weeks ago, a new group of Boise State player banners went up on the east side of Albertsons Stadium. They signal the start of another upcoming football season. It’s a tradition that dates back to 2009. However, seeing this year’s banners reminded me of the lack of recognition for former players inside the stadium.
When Head Coach Bryan Harsin was hired, he adopted the motto “embrace the past, attack the future.” Harsin’s teams will attack the future, but the embracing the past part needs some work. I like to see former players introduced as honorary captains before games. The mural above the patio of the Allen Noble Hall of Fame remembers a few players, but is barely visible from much of the stadium. Retiring numbers has never really been an option. While BSU does some nice things to remember their past, the stadium needs a more permanent way to honor players that have donned the blue and orange. So how can it be done? I propose Boise State start a Ring of Honor.
The east side of the stadium is the place to begin. Each section features two equally distant support columns that rise above the top row of seats. You’ve seen them, yet probably didn’t really notice them. They would be the perfect place to recognize the contributions of former Broncos.
Not including the south end zone bleachers, there is room for up to 30 names. A classy looking placard with the player’s name, number and years of service is all that is needed.
If 30 names is too much, players could be recognized with their own section. Imagine having seats in the Kellen Moore section or the Cedric Minter section.
There would be pregame ceremonies unveiling the new members. Old and new Bronco fans would be given a permanent reminder to embrace the past. Fifteen years from now a son attending his first Boise State game might ask his dad, “Who is Kellen Moore?” The dad could explain that he is the winningest quarterback in college football history.
Lyle Smith has the field. Paul J. Schneider has the press box. Gene Bleymaier has the football complex. It’s time to honor some other Bronco greats inside Albertsons Stadium.
