Why Boise State University plays football on a field that is famously blue

Cultures · Published 10 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Boise State University is known for more than just its academic growth. Its football stadium, Albertsons Stadium, features a distinctive synthetic blue turf known as The Blue. Introduced in 1986, this non-green field was a bold innovation that remains a signature element of the university's identity and athletic program today.

Founded in 1932 by the Episcopal Church, Boise State University has evolved from a junior college into a public research institution classified as R2: Doctoral Universities with high research activity. Located on a 285-acre campus near downtown Boise, the university serves a record 28,519 students as of fall 2025. It offers a wide array of programs, including more than 100 graduate degrees and a full complement of materials science and engineering programs supported by significant private investment from Micron Technology.

The university's athletic identity is inextricably linked to its football program, the Broncos. In 1986, athletic director Gene Bleymaier introduced the first non-green football field in the country at what is now Albertsons Stadium. The synthetic turf, nicknamed The Smurf Turf, was a departure from traditional green surfaces. This choice proved successful, as the team maintained a home record of approximately 215–43 through the end of the 2024 season. The stadium itself has grown from a 14,500-seat facility in 1970 to a capacity of around 37,000 today.

Beyond athletics, the university maintains a strong focus on research and community engagement. In the 2024 fiscal year, it reported research expenditures exceeding $70 million. The institution also fosters local connections, such as its collaboration with Harvard Business School and its partnership with downtown technology companies. With over 102,000 living alumni, the university continues to play a central role in Idaho's educational and economic landscape, balancing its high-profile athletic traditions with a commitment to diverse academic pursuits and regional development.

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