Rate Bowl
The Rate Bowl is an annual postseason college football bowl game held in Phoenix, Arizona, typically pitting teams from the Big Ten Conference against those from the Big 12 Conference.[1][2] Established in 1989 as the Copper Bowl, the game has undergone numerous name changes reflecting its corporate sponsors: Copper Bowl (1989–1996), Insight Bowl (1997–2011), Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl (2012–2013), Cactus Bowl (2015–2017), Cheez-It Bowl (2018–2019), Guaranteed Rate Bowl (2021–2023), and Rate Bowl since 2024. The 2020 edition was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[2] It is organized by the Fiesta Sports Foundation and has been a fixture of the College Football Playoff postseason system, showcasing non-conference rivalries in a festive Arizona setting.[1] The game originated at Arizona Stadium in Tucson and was hosted at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe from 2006 to 2015 before shifting to Chase Field in downtown Phoenix starting in 2016 to accommodate larger crowds and enhance the urban bowl experience.[2][3] Over its 35 editions through 2024, it has featured competitive matchups, with notable outcomes including Arizona's 17–10 victory over North Carolina State in the inaugural 1989 game and Kansas State's dramatic 44–41 comeback win against Rutgers in the 2024 edition, which drew 21,659 spectators.[2] The bowl emphasizes community engagement and family-friendly events, with tickets for the 2025 game—scheduled for December 26 at Chase Field—already on sale, highlighting its role as a key holiday tradition in college football.[1][3]History
Origins and establishment
The Rate Bowl, initially launched as the Copper Bowl, was conceptualized in 1988 by a group of Tucson business leaders and sports organizers seeking to establish a postseason college football game for mid-tier teams frequently overlooked by major bowls such as the Rose Bowl and Fiesta Bowl in the pre-BCS era.[4] This initiative aimed to create an accessible platform for competitive non-powerhouse programs, filling a notable gap in the postseason landscape where only 18 Division I-A bowl games existed at the time.[4] In April 1989, an NCAA subcommittee granted approval for the Tucson-based group to host the inaugural Copper Bowl as the 18th postseason game, enabling rapid preparation for the debut event.[4] The first game occurred on December 31, 1989, at Arizona Stadium in Tucson, pitting the Pac-10 Conference's Arizona Wildcats against an at-large opponent, the Atlantic Coast Conference's North Carolina State Wolfpack; Arizona prevailed 17-10 before a crowd of 37,237, solidifying the bowl's initial positioning as a New Year's Eve tradition.[5] The format emphasized a conference-affiliated team versus a selected at-large bidder, with affordable ticket pricing—starting at around $20—to promote fan accessibility and regional engagement.[6] Organizers faced significant early challenges, including a last-minute withdrawal by the planned title sponsor Breathless, which had pledged $250,000 but backed out, necessitating emergency funding from local Tucson businesses and corporations to cover operational costs.[6] Despite these financial strains and the complexities of securing NCAA certification amid a crowded bowl schedule, the Copper Bowl succeeded in its debut, providing vital exposure for mid-major and conference teams in an era dominated by elite matchups.[4] The event's success laid the groundwork for its growth, though it later transitioned venues to Phoenix for expanded capacity.Name changes and sponsorship evolution
The Rate Bowl, originally established as the Copper Bowl, underwent its first major rebranding in 1997 when it became the Insight.com Bowl, sponsored by Insight Enterprises, an Arizona-based technology company. This marked the first instance of an internet-focused firm serving as a title sponsor for a college football bowl game, reflecting the growing influence of the tech sector in sports marketing during the late 1990s. The name change coincided with the game's relocation from Tucson to Phoenix, broadening its appeal and aligning it with a larger metropolitan market to attract bigger crowds and media attention.[7] Following the dot-com era, the sponsorship simplified to the Insight Bowl from 2002 through 2011, maintaining the partnership with Insight Enterprises amid a period of steady growth for the game. In 2012, the bowl shifted to the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl under a deal with the national restaurant chain, emphasizing family-friendly branding and tying into the company's sports-bar culture with promotional events such as fan meet-and-greets and wing-eating contests at local outlets. This partnership lasted until 2013, after which organizers briefly explored options before rebranding to the Cactus Bowl in 2014 under TicketCity sponsorship (2014–2015) to evoke Arizona's desert landscape. Subsequent iterations included the Motel 6 Cactus Bowl in 2016 and an unsponsored Cactus Bowl in 2017, before Cheez-It assumed title rights in 2018, renaming it the Cheez-It Bowl through 2019 and integrating snack-themed marketing activations like product giveaways to boost fan engagement.[8][9][10] The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted bowl operations in 2020, leading to the cancellation of that year's edition, but the game stabilized with a timely title sponsorship from Guaranteed Rate, a Chicago-based mortgage lender, renaming it the Guaranteed Rate Bowl in a multi-year agreement that ensured its continuation amid economic uncertainty. This deal, finalized during a housing market boom fueled by low interest rates, positioned the bowl as a key Big Ten-Big 12 matchup and included marketing tie-ins such as homeownership seminars and digital campaigns targeting young fans, enhancing the event's prestige as a reliable postseason fixture. In 2022, Guaranteed Rate extended the partnership through at least 2025, providing long-term financial security post-pandemic. By October 2024, following the company's corporate rebrand to simply "Rate," the bowl adopted its current name, the Rate Bowl, to align with the sponsor's simplified identity focused on fintech innovation, while discussions around further renewals emphasized continued stability and expanded promotional integrations like app-based fan experiences.[11][12][13][14]Venue transitions
The Rate Bowl, originally known as the Copper Bowl, was hosted at Arizona Stadium in Tucson from its inception in 1989 through 1999. The stadium, with a capacity of approximately 50,000 during that period, regularly drew average crowds exceeding 40,000, including a record 49,385 attendees for the 1997 Insight.com Bowl matchup between Arizona and New Mexico.[15][16] In 2000, the game relocated to Chase Field, a retractable-roof stadium in downtown Phoenix, to capitalize on the larger Phoenix metropolitan area's population growth and address declining attendance in Tucson, which had averaged around 35,000–45,000 in later years despite the smaller market size.[17] This shift also provided enhanced television production facilities in a more urban setting and mitigated potential weather disruptions through the venue's enclosed design, ensuring year-round viability in Arizona's variable December climate.[18] The bowl remained at Chase Field until 2005, with notable crowds including 45,917 for the 2004 Insight Bowl. The game moved to Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe for the 2006 edition, a larger outdoor venue with a capacity exceeding 70,000, primarily to occupy the slot vacated by the Fiesta Bowl's relocation to the new University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.[19] This transition accommodated bigger crowds, such as the 48,892 who attended the 2007 Insight Bowl, but exposed the event to outdoor weather elements. The Rate Bowl (then the Insight Bowl) stayed at Sun Devil Stadium through 2015, including a record attendance of 54,247 for the 2011 edition. Returning to Chase Field in 2016 due to extensive renovations at Sun Devil Stadium that rendered it unavailable, the bowl has since benefited from the venue's controlled environment and central location.[20] Adaptations for football include overlaying the baseball diamond with sod turf grown locally, adjusting dimensions to standard NCAA specifications (120 yards by 53.3 yards), and installing temporary seating in the outfield to optimize sightlines, a process typically taking about 10 days.[21] Attendance at Chase Field has varied, though the 2024 Rate Bowl drew 21,659 spectators for the Kansas State–Rutgers matchup.[22][23] Looking ahead, Chase Field's ongoing renovations, secured through up to $500 million in public funding as part of a 30-year lease extension for the Arizona Diamondbacks, aim to modernize facilities while maintaining suitability for events like the Rate Bowl.[24]Conference tie-ins and affiliations
The Rate Bowl's conference affiliations began shifting in the mid-2010s as part of broader realignments in college football bowl scheduling. From 2014 to 2019, under its Cactus Bowl branding, the game was included in the Big 12 Conference's six-year bowl package, typically pitting a Big 12 team against a Pac-12 opponent as one of the league's affiliated non-New Year's Six bowls.[25] In June 2019, the Fiesta Sports Foundation, which organizes the bowl, announced a multi-year partnership establishing formal tie-ins with both the Big Ten and Big 12 conferences, effective for the 2020–21 season through the 2025–26 season.[26] This agreement positioned the Rate Bowl as the sole postseason matchup exclusively between these two Power conferences, replacing prior hybrid arrangements and ensuring one team from each league participates annually, subject to College Football Playoff (CFP) eligibility.[26] These tie-ins are integrated into the CFP era's bowl framework, where the 12-team playoff first selects participants before affiliated bowls like the Rate Bowl receive teams from their conference pools.[27] Post-2020 expansions to the CFP have further evolved the process, allowing non-playoff-eligible teams from the Big Ten and Big 12—often at-large selections with at least six wins—to fill the slots, enhancing access for mid-tier conference finishers while prioritizing higher-ranked squads for playoff or premium bowls.[27] The 2024 edition exemplified this structure, matching Kansas State University from the Big 12 against Rutgers University from the Big Ten in a game that highlighted the tie-in's role in postseason opportunities.[28] The agreement remains in effect for the 2025 game on December 26, with no announced changes to the Big Ten-Big 12 exclusivity as of the 2025 season.[14]Game format and traditions
Selection process and eligibility
Teams participating in the Rate Bowl must meet standard NCAA postseason eligibility criteria, which include achieving at least six wins against Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) opponents during the regular season, with a maximum of one win counting against Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) teams, alongside compliance with academic progress rate standards and absence of major pending sanctions from the NCAA or conferences.[29][30] The Rate Bowl operates under a primary tie-in agreement with the Big Ten and Big 12 Conferences, prioritizing an automatic bid for one team from each conference that meets or exceeds six wins, provided such teams are available after higher-priority bowl selections like the College Football Playoff (CFP) and New Year's Six games.[31][14] If eligible teams from these power conferences are unavailable—due to CFP qualification, other bowl assignments, or insufficient records—the bowl may select at-large participants from Group of 5 conferences, subject to overall NCAA bowl berth availability.[32] Following the CFP's expansion to 12 teams in 2024, the Rate Bowl functions as a non-playoff postseason game, typically featuring mid-tier teams from the Big Ten or Big 12 that do not advance to the playoff, thereby providing opportunities for competitive matchups outside the national championship structure while adhering to conference distribution rules.[27] Team selection involves collaboration between the Fiesta Sports Foundation, which organizes the bowl, and representatives from the Big Ten and Big 12 commissioners, who rank and assign eligible teams based on factors such as win-loss records (preferring at least a two-game differential between opponents), no prior regular-season matchup, and avoidance of repeat participants from the previous two years.[1][32] For instance, in 2024, Rutgers (7-5 from the Big Ten) was selected over other eligible conference teams due to its position in the Big Ten's bowl assignment priority order, pairing it against Kansas State from the Big 12 to fulfill the tie-in matchup.[33]Pregame and halftime events
The pregame festivities for the Rate Bowl begin with team arrivals at local hotels in downtown Phoenix, typically the day before the game, allowing players and coaches to acclimate to the venue at Chase Field.[1] Press conferences featuring head coaches and key players from both participating teams are held in the afternoon, providing media insights into strategies and player preparations. Fan tailgates and activations occur throughout the morning, culminating in the official Rate Bowl Pregame Party on 4th Street outside Chase Field from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., for example in 2024, offering free public access to food trucks, beverages, a photobooth, golf simulators, carnival games, and live performances.[34] Sponsor activations, led by title sponsor Rate, emphasize on-site engagements such as interactive displays and signage to enhance fan experiences, aligning with the company's broader financial services branding.[35] Opening ceremonies commence in the hours leading up to kickoff, featuring performances by the marching bands of the competing schools, setting an energetic tone.[36] The national anthem is performed traditionally by local military personnel, honoring service members as part of the bowl's patriotic elements.[1] At halftime, the entertainment shifts to the participating universities' marching bands, which deliver synchronized shows highlighting school spirit and musical precision; for example, in 2024, the Kansas State Marching Band and Rutgers Marching Scarlet Knights performed segments tailored to their programs.[37][38] These performances often include high-energy routines with formations and music from popular and school-specific themes, lasting approximately 12-15 minutes.[39] Following the 2020 cancellation due to COVID-19, pregame and halftime events resumed in 2021 with in-person formats, incorporating hybrid elements like enhanced digital streaming for remote viewers in subsequent years.[13][40]Postgame ceremonies
Following the conclusion of the Rate Bowl, on-field ceremonies commence to honor the game's outstanding performers and the victorious team. The offensive and defensive Most Valuable Players (MVPs) are announced and presented with their awards during a brief ceremony at midfield, often involving representatives from the Fiesta Sports Foundation and bowl sponsors such as Guaranteed Rate, the title sponsor. These presentations highlight individual contributions that defined the game, with the awards serving as recognition of exceptional play in the postseason matchup.[41] The bowl trophy is then presented to the winning team's captain or head coach by Fiesta Sports Foundation executives and sponsor officials, marking the official culmination of the event. This moment is typically accompanied by team celebrations on the field at Chase Field, emphasizing the Big Ten-Big 12 conference tie-in's competitive spirit. For instance, in the 2024 Rate Bowl, Kansas State's Dylan Edwards received Offensive MVP honors for his bowl-record 223 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns in a 44-41 comeback victory over Rutgers, joining teammates in the trophy ceremony. Similarly, in 2023, Kansas quarterback Jason Bean (offensive MVP) and safety Kenny Logan Jr. (defensive MVP) accepted their awards alongside head coach Lance Leipold during the postgame festivities after a 49-36 win over UNLV.[41][42][43] Immediately after the on-field honors, players and coaches conduct interviews with broadcast partners directly from the sidelines or victory platform, providing initial reactions to the game's outcome. These are followed by formal postgame press conferences in the media facilities at Chase Field, where detailed discussions occur on strategies, performances, and season reflections. In the 2024 edition, Kansas State's postgame activities included exuberant team celebrations of their 17-point deficit rally, highlighted by Edwards' game-winning score, underscoring the bowl's tradition of dramatic finishes.[43] The Fiesta Sports Foundation leverages the Rate Bowl to support community causes, including the donation of the game's artificial turf field to Arizona nonprofits and youth programs, promoting youth sports and community development in the Phoenix area. Over the years, such initiatives have repurposed playing surfaces for local installations, like the 2023 field gifted to Luke Air Force Base and the 2024 field to Western School of Science and Technology, enhancing recreational opportunities while tying into the bowl's charitable mission.[44][45][46]Championship games
Annual game results
The Rate Bowl has been contested annually since its inception in 1989, except for 2020 when the game was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in 35 games through 2024. The games have been held in Arizona venues, primarily in the Phoenix metropolitan area, with final scores, attendance figures, and locations reflecting the event's growth from modest crowds at Sun Devil Stadium to larger capacities at Chase Field. Most Valuable Players (MVPs), typically awarded for offensive and defensive performances, are noted where officially recognized by the bowl organizers.[2][47] The following table summarizes all Rate Bowl results chronologically by game date:| Game Year | Date | Winning Team (Score) | Losing Team (Score) | Attendance | Location (Stadium) | MVP(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 | Dec 31 | Arizona (17) | NC State (10) | 37,237 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | Co-MVPs: Scott Geyer (Arizona, QB), Shane Montgomery (NC State, QB) |
| 1990 | Dec 31 | California (17) | Wyoming (15) | 43,117 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 1991 | Dec 31 | Indiana (24) | Baylor (0) | 43,758 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 1992 | Dec 29 | Washington State (31) | Utah (28) | 42,666 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 1993 | Dec 29 | Kansas State (52) | Wyoming (17) | 44,645 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 1994 | Dec 29 | BYU (31) | Oklahoma (6) | 46,640 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 1995 | Dec 27 | Texas Tech (55) | Air Force (41) | 46,082 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 1996 | Dec 27 | Wisconsin (38) | Utah (10) | 62,033 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 1997 | Dec 27 | Arizona (20) | New Mexico (14) | 47,938 | Tucson (Arizona Stadium) | - |
| 1998 | Dec 26 | Missouri (34) | West Virginia (31) | 43,012 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 1999 | Dec 31 | Colorado (62) | Boston College (28) | 66,324 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2000 | Dec 28 | Iowa State (37) | Pittsburgh (29) | 63,470 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2001 | Dec 29 | Syracuse (26) | Kansas State (3) | 40,028 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2002 | Dec 26 | Pittsburgh (38) | Oregon State (13) | 33,922 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2003 | Dec 26 | California (52) | Virginia Tech (49) | 42,364 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2004 | Dec 28 | Oregon State (38) | Notre Dame (21) | 40,089 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2005 | Dec 27 | Arizona State (45) | Rutgers (40) | 46,785 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2006 | Dec 29 | Texas Tech (44) | Minnesota (41) OT | 41,145 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2007 | Dec 31 | Oklahoma State (49) | Indiana (33) | 41,714 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2008 | Dec 31 | Kansas (42) | Minnesota (21) | 47,103 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2009 | Dec 31 | Iowa State (14) | Minnesota (13) | 41,089 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2010 | Dec 28 | Iowa (27) | Missouri (24) | 44,149 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2011 | Dec 30 | Oklahoma (31) | Iowa (14) | 54,247 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2012 | Dec 29 | Michigan State (17) | TCU (16) | 44,701 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2013 | Dec 28 | Kansas State (31) | Michigan (14) | 53,284 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | - |
| 2014 | Jan 2, 2015 | Oklahoma State (30) | Washington (22) | 35,409 | Tempe (Sun Devil Stadium) | Desmond Roland (Oklahoma State, RB), Seth Jacobs (Oklahoma State, LB) |
| 2015* | Jan 2, 2016 | West Virginia (43) | Arizona State (42) | 39,321 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | Skyler Howard (West Virginia, QB), Shaq Petteway (West Virginia, LB)) |
| 2016 | Dec 27 | Baylor (31) | Boise State (12) | 33,328 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | K.D. Cannon (Baylor, WR), Tyrone Hunt (Baylor, DE)) |
| 2017 | Dec 26 | Kansas State (35) | UCLA (17) | 30,031 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | - |
| 2018 | Dec 31 | TCU (10) | California (7) OT | 33,121 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | - |
| 2019 | Dec 27 | Air Force (31) | Washington State (21) | 17,055 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | - |
| 2020 | - | Canceled (COVID-19) | - | - | - | - |
| 2021 | Dec 28 | Minnesota (18) | West Virginia (6) | 25,976 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | - |
| 2022 | Dec 27 | Wisconsin (24) | Oklahoma State (17) | 23,187 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | Braelon Allen (Wisconsin, RB) |
| 2023 | Dec 26 | Kansas (49) | UNLV (36) | 26,478 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | Jason Bean (Kansas, QB), Kenny Logan Jr. (Kansas, WR) |
| 2024 | Dec 26 | Kansas State (44) | Rutgers (41) | 21,659 | Phoenix (Chase Field) | Dylan Edwards (Kansas State, RB), Austin Moore (Kansas State, LB) |
Notable matchups and outcomes
One of the earliest standout games in the bowl's history occurred in 1995, when Texas Tech defeated Air Force 55-41 in a high-scoring affair that showcased the offensive potential of non-Power 5 conferences against service academies. The Red Raiders' no-huddle offense overwhelmed the Falcons' wishbone attack, combining for 96 points and 1,142 total yards, with Texas Tech's Byron Hanspard rushing for 142 yards and three touchdowns. This matchup highlighted emerging rivalries between Southwest Conference teams and Mountain West precursors, setting a tone for the bowl's reputation for entertaining, wide-open football.[49] The 2003 Insight Bowl featured a dramatic 52-49 victory for California over Virginia Tech, capped by a 35-yard field goal as time expired, in a game that exemplified the bowl's penchant for late-game heroics and quarterback duels. Aaron Rodgers threw for 394 yards and four touchdowns for the Golden Bears, while the Hokies' Bryan Randall countered with 267 passing yards and three scores in a back-and-forth battle that saw five lead changes. This contest underscored underdog resilience, as California overcame a preseason suspension of key players to secure a thrilling win against a Big East powerhouse.[50] A hallmark of overtime thrillers came in the 2006 Insight Bowl, where Texas Tech staged a record 31-point comeback to edge Minnesota 44-41 in overtime, the largest rally in bowl history at the time. Trailing 38-7 in the third quarter, the Red Raiders scored 37 unanswered points behind Kliff Kingsbury's 294 passing yards and four touchdowns, forcing OT after a late Minnesota field goal. This underdog triumph illustrated the bowl's history of dramatic turnarounds, with Minnesota's collapse remaining a cautionary tale of second-half execution.[51][52] The 2012 Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl delivered a defensive thriller as Michigan State narrowly defeated TCU 17-16 on a last-second 34-yard field goal by Dan Conroy. Le'Veon Bell rushed for 117 yards for the Spartans, who overcame an early 13-0 deficit in a low-scoring grind that featured TCU's stifling defense limiting Michigan State to just 90 passing yards. This close contest emphasized the bowl's evolution toward Big Ten-Big 12 matchups, with both teams finishing 7-6 and showcasing gritty, comeback resilience.[53] The most recent high-drama edition unfolded in the 2024 Rate Bowl, where Kansas State rallied from a 17-point deficit to defeat Rutgers 44-41, setting a bowl record with 589 total offensive yards. Running back Dylan Edwards rushed for 196 yards and three touchdowns, including a pivotal 36-yard score late in the fourth quarter, while the Wildcats' defense forced two turnovers to fuel the comeback. Coach Chris Klieman praised the team's resolve postgame, stating, "Great leadership from our seniors... We just kept battling," highlighting the underdog spirit in a game that saw Rutgers lead 34-17 before fading.[43][54]Records and statistics
Team performance records
The Rate Bowl has featured several remarkable team performances, particularly in offensive and defensive extremes, as well as conference dominance in its early years. The highest score posted by a single team stands at 62 points, accomplished by the Colorado Buffaloes in their 62-28 rout of Boston College during the 1999 Insight Bowl. This mark remains the benchmark for offensive output in the game's history.[2] On the flip side, the most points conceded by a team is also 62, endured by Boston College in that 1999 matchup against Colorado, highlighting a defensive collapse in a high-scoring affair. Other notable high concessions include 52 points allowed by Virginia Tech in their 52-49 overtime loss to California in the 2003 Insight Bowl.[2] Conference trends reveal early command by West Coast teams, with Pac-10 (now Pac-12) squads securing a 5-0 record across the bowl's first 11 editions from 1989 to 1999, including victories in the inaugural game and several lopsided wins that underscored their regional strength.[1] Defensively, the tightest performance saw a team allow zero points, as the Indiana Hoosiers blanked Baylor 24-0 in the 1991 Copper Bowl, enforcing a complete shutout en route to victory. This remains the fewest points permitted in a Rate Bowl game.[2]| Record Category | Team | Points | Opponent | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highest team score | Colorado | 62 | Boston College | 1999 |
| Most points allowed | Boston College | 62 | Colorado | 1999 |
| Fewest points allowed | Indiana | 0 | Baylor | 1991 |
Individual player achievements
In the Rate Bowl's history, quarterbacks have occasionally delivered exceptional passing performances, with West Virginia's Skyler Howard setting the benchmark in the 2016 Cactus Bowl by throwing for 532 yards and five touchdowns against Arizona State, marking the highest single-game passing total in bowl history.[55] This effort, which included 32 completions on 52 attempts, powered a high-scoring affair and highlighted Howard's ability to orchestrate a potent aerial attack under pressure.[56] Rushing standouts have also left their mark, exemplified by Texas Tech's Byron Hanspard in the 1995 Copper Bowl, where he amassed 260 yards on 24 carries and scored four touchdowns against Air Force, establishing enduring records for both categories in the game's early years.[57] More recently, Kansas State's Dylan Edwards rushed for 196 yards and two touchdowns on 18 carries, setting a Kansas State bowl record, in the 2024 edition against Rutgers, contributing to a dramatic comeback victory.[43] These performances underscore the bowl's tradition of featuring dynamic runners who can dominate on the ground. Wide receivers have shone brightly as well, with Washington State's Phillip Bobo recording 212 receiving yards on six catches, including touchdown grabs of 87 and 48 yards, in the 1992 Copper Bowl win over Utah.[58] Bobo's explosive plays from quarterback Drew Bledsoe helped secure a 31-28 triumph and remain a highlight of the bowl's receiving records. Versatile players excelling in multiple facets are equally notable, as seen with Arizona State's Tim White, who tallied 289 all-purpose yards in the 2016 Cactus Bowl—comprising 79 receiving yards on six catches with two touchdowns, plus 210 return yards—including a school-record performance that nearly turned the tide against West Virginia.[59] Such multifaceted contributions emphasize the Rate Bowl's emphasis on athletic versatility.Game and stadium records
The Rate Bowl has produced several memorable single-game benchmarks, particularly in scoring and attendance, reflecting its history as a competitive postseason matchup typically featuring teams from the Big 12 and Big Ten conferences. The highest total points in a game stands at 101, achieved during the 2003 Insight Bowl (a predecessor to the current Rate Bowl branding) when California defeated Virginia Tech 52–49 at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. This contest also set the benchmark for combined points by both teams and remains the most prolific offensive output in the bowl's history.[60] Attendance records highlight the bowl's appeal in its early years at larger outdoor venues before transitioning indoors. The largest crowd was 54,247, drawn to the 2011 Insight Bowl featuring Oklahoma against Iowa, also at Sun Devil Stadium.[22] Since moving to the domed Chase Field in Phoenix in 2016, crowds have been more modest, with the 2024 edition attracting 21,659 spectators for Kansas State's 44–41 victory over Rutgers.[61] The shift to an enclosed stadium has eliminated weather-related disruptions, as Chase Field's retractable roof ensures games proceed unaffected by Arizona's variable winter conditions. Overtime has occurred twice in the bowl's history, adding drama to close contests. The 2006 Insight Bowl went to one overtime period, with Texas Tech edging Minnesota 44–41 after trailing by 31 points in the fourth quarter—a comeback that tied the largest in FBS bowl history at the time.[60] Similarly, the 2018 Cheez-It Bowl extended to one overtime, where TCU outlasted California 10–7. No games have required multiple overtimes, though the bowl's artificial turf at [Chase Field](/page/Chase Field) has occasionally drawn note for its durability under high-contact play, with no major wear incidents reported across its tenure there.Awards and honors
Most Valuable Players
Since its inception in 1989 as the Copper Bowl, the Rate Bowl has recognized outstanding individual performances by awarding Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors to one offensive player and one defensive player each year, typically from the winning team. These dual awards highlight the game's emphasis on balanced excellence, with selections made by the bowl's organizing committee in collaboration with media outlets, including the Associated Press.[47] The tradition underscores the bowl's role in celebrating pivotal contributions that often propel teams to victory and launch or cap notable careers. Notable MVPs have included future NFL stars and award contenders who used their performances to gain national attention. For instance, in the 2003 Insight Bowl, quarterback Aaron Rodgers earned offensive MVP honors for California after completing 23 of 33 passes for 394 yards and two touchdowns in a 52-49 thriller against Virginia Tech, a performance that foreshadowed his Hall of Fame trajectory, including four NFL MVP awards and a Super Bowl title.[62] Similarly, running back Le'Veon Bell's 2012 Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl offensive MVP award came via 22 carries for 117 yards and a touchdown in Michigan State's 17-16 upset of TCU, propelling him to a Pro Bowl NFL career with over 8,000 rushing yards. Wide receiver Tyler Lockett's 2013 offensive MVP nod featured 10 receptions for 116 yards and three touchdowns in Kansas State's 31-14 win over Michigan, marking an early highlight in his ongoing NFL tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, where he has amassed more than 8,000 receiving yards. These examples illustrate how Rate Bowl MVPs often represent high-impact players whose bowl exploits reflect broader seasonal excellence and long-term professional success. The following table lists the offensive and defensive MVPs from recent Rate Bowl games (2012–2024), focusing on verified selections that established key game contexts like record-setting outputs or comeback efforts.| Year | Offensive MVP | Position, Team | Defensive MVP | Position, Team | Game Context |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Dylan Edwards | RB, Kansas State | Austin Moore | LB, Kansas State | Edwards scored three TDs, including the game-winner in a 44-41 comeback from 17 points down; Moore had six tackles and a sack in the win over Rutgers.[43][23] |
| 2023 | Jason Bean | QB, Kansas | Kenny Logan Jr. | S, Kansas | Bean set a bowl record with six passing TDs for 449 yards in a 49-36 victory over UNLV; Logan recorded seven tackles and an interception.[63][64] |
| 2022 | Braelon Allen | RB, Wisconsin | Jordan Turner | LB, Wisconsin | Allen rushed for 72 yards and a TD in a 24-17 defensive stand against Oklahoma State; Turner led with nine tackles and a fumble recovery.[65] |
| 2021 | Ky Thomas | RB, Minnesota | Tyler Nubin | S, Minnesota | Thomas ran for 144 yards and a TD in an 18-6 shutout of West Virginia; Nubin had five tackles and a pass breakup.[66] |
| 2013 | Tyler Lockett | WR, Kansas State | Dante Barnett | S, Kansas State | Lockett tied a bowl record with three TD catches for 116 yards in a 31-14 rout of Michigan; Barnett intercepted two passes.[67] |
| 2012 | Le'Veon Bell | RB, Michigan State | William Gholston | DE, Michigan State | Bell gained 117 rushing yards in a 17-16 upset of TCU; Gholston recorded three sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss. |
| 2003 | Aaron Rodgers | QB, California | Ryan Gutierrez | FS, California | Rodgers threw for 394 yards and two TDs in a 52-49 shootout win over Virginia Tech; Gutierrez had nine tackles and an interception.[62][68] |
Sportsmanship and citizenship awards
The Rate Bowl has a tradition of recognizing participants for exemplary sportsmanship through an annual award presented to a player who demonstrates outstanding conduct during the game, typically voted on by the officiating crew. This award highlights the bowl's commitment to promoting fair play and respect among athletes. It was established during the Insight Bowl era, with the first documented presentation occurring in the 2003 game.[68] The award has been presented annually since 2003. Notable recipients include Doug Easlick, a fullback for Virginia Tech, who received the honor in 2003 for his positive demeanor in the Insight Bowl matchup against California.[68] In 2006, Minnesota safety Dominic Jones was awarded for his contributions to team spirit and fair competition in the game against Texas Tech.[69] The award persisted into the 2010s, with examples such as Minnesota center D.J. Burris in 2009 against Iowa State and Washington defensive lineman Andrew Hudson in 2015 against Oklahoma State.[70][71] The following table lists verified sportsmanship award recipients:| Year | Recipient | Position, Team | Game Opponent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Doug Easlick | FB, Virginia Tech | California |
| 2005 | Jacob Bender | OL, Arizona State | Tulsa |
| 2006 | Dominic Jones | S, Minnesota | Texas Tech |
| 2008 | Jack Simmons | QB, Minnesota | Bowling Green |
| 2009 | D.J. Burris | C, Minnesota | Iowa State |
| 2010 | Tim Barnes | C, Missouri | Iowa |
| 2011 | Tyler Nielsen | LB, Iowa | Oklahoma |
| 2015 | Andrew Hudson | DL, Washington | Oklahoma State |
| 2016 | Lamont Wade | S, Boise State | Baylor |
| 2023 | [To be verified; continued tradition] | - | - |
Team participation
Most frequent participants
The Rate Bowl, spanning 35 editions since its inception as the Copper Bowl in 1989 (with the 2020 edition canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic), has featured a variety of teams from non-major conferences in its early years to a focus on power conference matchups in recent decades, particularly the Big Ten and Big 12 since 2021. Kansas State holds the distinction of being the most frequent participant, with five appearances and a 4-1 record. Their outings include a 52-17 victory over Wyoming in the 1993 Copper Bowl, a 26-3 loss to Syracuse in the 2001 Insight Bowl, a 31-14 win against Michigan in the 2013 Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl, a 35-17 triumph over UCLA in the 2017 Cactus Bowl, and a 44-41 comeback win against Rutgers in the 2024 Rate Bowl.[76][77][2] Minnesota ranks second with four appearances and a 1-3 record, reflecting consistent invitations during periods of bowl eligibility but limited postseason success in this game. The Golden Gophers' participations occurred in 2006 (a 41-44 loss to Texas Tech in the Insight Bowl), 2008 (a 21-42 loss to Kansas in the Insight Bowl), 2009 (a 13-14 loss to Iowa State in the Insight Bowl), and 2021 (an 18-6 win over West Virginia in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl).[78] Several teams have made three appearances each, underscoring the bowl's appeal to mid-tier programs from the Big 12 and other conferences. These include West Virginia (1-2 record: 1998 Insight loss to Missouri, 2015 Cactus win over Arizona State, 2021 Guaranteed Rate loss to Minnesota), California (2-1 record: 1990 Copper win over Wyoming, 2003 Insight win over Virginia Tech, 2018 Cheez-It loss to TCU), and Oklahoma State (2-1 record: 2007 Insight win over Indiana, 2014 Cactus win over Washington, 2022 Guaranteed Rate loss to Wisconsin). To be precise, the bowl's records show these teams with three outings, contributing to the game's reputation for competitive, high-scoring affairs.[2][79]| Team | Appearances | Record (W-L) | Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas State | 5 | 4-1 | 1993, 2001, 2013, 2017, 2024 |
| Minnesota | 4 | 1-3 | 2006, 2008, 2009, 2021 |
| West Virginia | 3 | 1-2 | 1998, 2015, 2021 |
| California | 3 | 2-1 | 1990, 2003, 2018 |
| Oklahoma State | 3 | 2-1 | 2007, 2014, 2022 |
Appearances by conference
The Rate Bowl, formerly known as the Cactus Bowl and other names, has featured teams from various NCAA conferences since its inception in 1989, reflecting changes in bowl affiliations and conference realignments over time.[2] Early editions emphasized matchups involving the Pac-10 (now defunct Pac-12), which dominated with frequent invitations alongside Western Athletic Conference (WAC) and Big Eight (predecessor to the Big 12) teams, showcasing regional rivalries in the Southwest.[2] From 2006 to 2011, the bowl shifted toward Big 12 versus Big Ten contests, establishing a pattern of cross-country clashes between power conferences.[2] Post-2012, affiliations evolved further, with the Pac-12 joining as the primary opponent to the Big 12 until the conference's dissolution after the 2023 season; since 2021, the bowl has primarily featured Big Ten-Big 12 matchups.[2] Conference participation highlights the bowl's adaptability to NCAA landscape changes, with power conferences accounting for the majority of appearances. The Big 12 leads in total slots, benefiting from its Southwest proximity and tie-in agreements, while the Big Ten has gained prominence in recent years, including the 2024 matchup featuring Rutgers.[2][81] Smaller conferences and independents have filled at-large spots sporadically, often in the bowl's formative years, contributing to diverse outcomes but fewer overall wins.[2]| Conference | Appearances | Record (Wins-Losses) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big 12 (incl. predecessors: Big 8, Big Eight) | 23 | 16-7 | Dominant post-2000; includes 9-5 record in games since 2012 realignment.[2] |
| Big Ten | 13 | 6-7 | Increased exclusivity since 2021; includes 2024 Rutgers appearance.[2][81] |
| Pac-12 (incl. predecessor: Pac-10) | 12 | 7-5 | Historical Southwest focus; defunct after 2023 season.[2] |
| Big East | 6 | 2-4 | Primarily 1999-2005 at-large bids.[2] |
| Mountain West (incl. predecessor: WAC for some) | 7 | 1-6 | Service academy and group-of-five representatives.[2] |
| WAC | 4 | 1-3 | Early non-power filler (1989-1997).[2] |
| ACC | 1 | 0-1 | Sole 1989 at-large (NC State).[2] |
| Independent | 1 | 0-1 | 2004 Notre Dame.[2] |