Poinsettia Bowl Matchup

Northern Illinois (8-5) vs. Boise State (8-4) , Dec. 23, 4:30 p.m. EST LOCATION: San Diego. TOP PLAYERS Northern Illinois: Sophomore CB Shawun Lurry leads the

Northern Illinois (8-5) vs. Boise State (8-4) , Dec. 23, 4:30 p.m. EST

LOCATION: San Diego.

TOP PLAYERS

Northern Illinois: Sophomore CB Shawun Lurry leads the nation with nine interceptions.

Boise State: WR Thomas Sperbeck led Mountain West in both receptions (82) and receiving yards (1,334).

NOTABLE

Northern Illinois: Coming off sixth straight appearance in Mid-American Conference title game, losing to Bowling Green, 34-14.

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Boise State: Broncos are making 14th straight bowl appearance.

LAST TIME

First meeting.

BOWL HISTORY

Northern Illinois: Making third Poinsettia Bowl appearance.

Boise State: Making second appearance in game.

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AP college football website: collegefootball.ap.org