Boise, Idaho – (April 30, 2012) – The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl today announced that the 16th annual game will be played on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. MST and televised on ESPN.  The Bowl will be the second game of the inaugural day of the bowl season and the only one in its time slot. 

“The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl has a history of competitive and entertaining games and continues to be an integral part of the opening day of Bowl Week,” said Kurt Dargis, ESPN Director, Programming and Acquisitions. 

The 2012 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl will feature a top selection from the Western Athletic Conference and the Mid-American Conference.  Last year, the Ohio University Bobcats overcame a 13-point deficit to the Utah State Aggies to win the 2011 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, 24-23, in a game decided in the final seconds.   The Bowl averaged 2.4 million national viewers on the ESPN telecast, with an announced crowd of 28,040.

“With another premier, pre-holiday time slot, we’ll be able to continue our history of strong ratings and quality fan experiences,” said Kevin McDonald, Famous Idaho Bowl Executive Director.  “The earlier date and start time increases the likelihood of warmer temperatures and maximizes fan interest without the interruption of holiday festivities.”

Reservations for premium ticket packages are currently available, which include prime ticket locations, hospitality benefits in tent village and corporate exposure.  For more information contact the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl office at (208) 424-1011.

About the Bowl
The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl recognizes the positive impact teams, coaches and student-athletes have in their communities and their leadership roles in promoting humanitarian efforts.  Each year, the Bowl generates over $1 million in direct economic impact for the facilities and charities involved.  For more information, visit www.famousidahopotatobowl.com.

About the Idaho Potato Commission
The Idaho Potato Commission is a state agency that is primarily responsible for expanding the markets for Idaho-grown potatoes through advertising, promotion and research. The Commission also protects the use of the "Idaho® potato" and "Grown in Idaho®" seals, which are federally, registered Certification Marks that belong to the IPC.  These Marks ensure that consumers are purchasing potatoes that have been grown in the state of Idaho. For more information, visit www.idahopotato.com.