BOISE, Idaho – For Boise State fans, December nights at Albertsons Stadium carry a certain magic. But on Friday, Dec. 6, the Broncos delivered a night to remember, clinching a Mountain West Championship with a 21-7 win over UNLV in front of a record-breaking crowd of over 36,000. Among the joyous moments and celebratory chaos, a heartfelt storyline unfolded—one of brotherhood, ambition, and a lifelong dream realized.
Jake and Jason Steele, brothers on Boise State’s offensive line and former standouts at Murrieta Valley High School, played pivotal roles in propelling the Broncos to this remarkable season. While only Jake was on the field during the championship game due to an injury earlier in the season, their story was the heartbeat of the evening. The brothers’ relationship, etched in years of backyard competitions and an unwavering passion for football, added emotional depth to Boise State’s victory.
Jake, a redshirt sophomore and transfer from San Jose State, seamlessly integrated into the program this fall, while Jason, a redshirt freshman, had grown into his role over the past two seasons. For their parents, Kenny and Jenni Steele, watching their sons reunite on the same team after years apart was an emotional chapter. “Seeing them on the field together was something we had always dreamed of,” Kenny shared. “All the long hours, training camps, and all the time spent driving them, or the family to games—it’s all been worth it.”
Jenni echoed the sentiment, emphasizing love and sacrifice. “They’ve worked so hard for this moment, and as a parent, seeing them thrive together is everything we could hope for.”
The Steele brothers brought their trademark grit and determination to every game this season, but one moment in particular stood out. During Boise State’s victory over Utah State on Oct. 5, the two brothers lined up side by side for the first time in college. When running back Jambres “Breezy” Dubar scored a touchdown, it marked not only a pivotal play but also a deeply personal milestone for the Steele duo.
“It was incredible,” Jason recalled. “Blocking alongside Jake and hearing the crowd roar after the touchdown…it’s something I’ll never forget.” Jake reflected on the moment, saying, “You’re so locked in during the game that you can’t always appreciate how special it is. But standing next to my brother in that moment—it really hit me how far we’ve come.”
The path to their success, however, wasn’t without its hurdles. Growing up, the Steele family’s weeks were filled with Temecula Valley Pop Warner games or batting cage sessions, and even early morning road trips across Southern California. Kenny, a steadfast supporter, recalled the early days. “We always told them to aim high but keep their feet on the ground. Whether it was football, baseball, or basketball, we wanted them to give it their all and enjoy the ride.”
Family memories of TYB baseball games at Temecula’s Ronald Reagan Sports Park remain vivid. Jenni smiled as she recounted those days. “They were always so competitive, but they had each other’s backs no matter the situation.” The brothers’ tight-knit bond was evident even as kids, which includes older brother Jordan, whether they were battling it out on the field or devouring post-game burgers.
Jake and Jason’s shared drive carried over into their high school years. The two teammates pushed each other to excel, each earning accolades on Murrieta Valley’s football team. Jake was a three-time All-Southwestern League honoree, and as a senior captain was named the league’s most valuable offensive lineman while leading the Nighthawks to a conference championship. Jason was named first-team all-league as both a junior and a senior. From early mornings at weightlifting sessions to grueling football camps on weekends, the boys turned their sibling rivalry into a partnership.
“When Jake transferred to Boise State, I knew this was going to be special,” Jason said. “Having my brother here—it’s like having a built-in support system. He pushes me to be better every day.” Jake added, “Being at Boise State isn’t just about football. It’s about family. Playing next to Jason is a dream come true.”
That dream continues as the Broncos prepare for their Fiesta Bowl showdown against Penn State on Dec. 31. Despite being listed as the underdog, Boise State enters the matchup with a 12-1 record and Heisman finalist Ashton Jeanty leading the charge.
Jason, who is now healthy, is eager for the opportunity to team up with Jake in what promises to be one of the biggest games of their careers. “To go out on that stage, against a team like Penn State, with my brother by my side—it’s everything,” Jason said.
For their parents, the Fiesta Bowl is another milestone in a journey they’ve cherished from the beginning. “We’re so proud of them,” Kenny said. “Seeing them grow as athletes and as men—it’s been an honor. No matter what happens on the field, in our eyes, they’ve already won.”
Through it all, the Steele brothers remain grounded, united by a mutual respect that was forged long before their time at Boise State. Off the field, they’re often spotted at each other’s houses hanging out and watching movies, or firing up the BBQ.
With the Fiesta Bowl on the horizon, the brothers aren’t thinking too far ahead. They’re focused on the game, their roles, and making their family proud—just as they’ve done every step of their sporting careers.
“There’s no price tag on moments like this,” Jake said. “I wouldn’t trade this time with my brother for anything.”
For the Steele clan, the Fiesta Bowl represents more than football. It’s a tribute to family, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond between two brothers determined to leave their mark.
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