NEW YORK, NY. – The historic Yankee Stadium in New York City will host the 2024 Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl on December 28, showcasing a thrilling matchup between the Nebraska Cornhuskers and Boston College Eagles. This year’s game promises to blend rich traditions with high stakes as these storied programs aim to cap their seasons on a high note.
A Storied Selection Process
The selection process for the Pinstripe Bowl highlighted the shared enthusiasm from both Nebraska and Boston College. Mark Holtzman, the bowl’s director, emphasized the importance of having motivated teams. “You want star power on both teams,” Holtzman said, pointing to standout players like Nebraska’s freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola and running back Emmett Johnson, as well as Boston College’s All-Conference running back Kye Robichaux and ACC Defensive Lineman of the Year Donovan Ezeiruaku.
For Nebraska, this marks the program’s first bowl appearance since 2016, a milestone that has ignited excitement among its loyal fan base. Boston College, no stranger to the Pinstripe Bowl with two previous appearances, boasts strong regional ties, with over 80,000 alumni within a 150-mile radius of New York City.
The Coaches’ Take
Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule, a New York City native, expressed his excitement about bringing his team to his hometown. “Since this game first came to fruition years ago, I’ve always wanted this opportunity,” said Rhule, reminiscing about his childhood in the city and the significance of Yankee Stadium.
Boston College’s Bill O’Brien, in his first year as head coach, highlighted the honor of playing against a storied program like Nebraska. “This is a great opportunity to cap off our season and compete at one of the most iconic venues in sports,” O’Brien said.
A Week of Festivities in the Big Apple
The bowl experience extends far beyond the gridiron. Both teams will enjoy a week of quintessential New York City events, including visits to the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, a performance by the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, and a reflective tour of the 9/11 Memorial. The players and staff will also participate in community outreach efforts, such as supporting Memorial Sloan Kettering’s pediatric center and the Greater New York Red Cross.
A standout moment will come on December 27, when One World Trade Center and Bryant Park will be lit up in the teams’ colors—a visual celebration of the Cornhuskers and Eagles ahead of their showdown.
Fans Fuel the Excitement
The game has already garnered strong support from alumni and fans. Nebraska, with its historic walk-on tradition and passionate following, has seen rapid ticket sales. Boston College, meanwhile, brings its local fan base and a legacy of memorable Pinstripe Bowl performances. “It’s the perfect storm,” Holtzman noted, referring to the blend of regional and national appeal.
A Clash of Traditions and Aspirations
As both teams prepare for the bowl, the focus is not only on celebrating past achievements but also on building momentum for the future. Nebraska’s Rhule acknowledged the significance of the moment, calling it a “full-circle experience” tied to the program’s history. Similarly, O’Brien underscored the importance of using the game as a stepping stone for Boston College’s continued growth under his leadership.
Game Day
The 2024 Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl kicks off at noon on December 28 and will be broadcast live on ABC. With a rich blend of tradition, talent, and the magic of New York City during the holidays, this year’s game promises to be a can’t-miss event for college football fans.
