Famous Idaho Potato Bowl will be Mountain West partner in 2013

The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl issued a press release on Friday stating that they will be partnered with the Mountain West conference beginning in 2013. The Mountain West, which is replacing the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) will be facing off against a high-selection team from the Mid American Conference (MAC) in the bowl game beginning next season.

Kevin McDonald, the bowl game's executive director, stated that he was excited to welcome the Mountain West conference.

"We are thrilled to become a bowl partner with the Mountain West who has a rich bowl history," said Kevin McDonald, Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Executive Director. "The conference houses many regional teams who produce outstanding programs and we look forward to hosting them in our bowl game."

The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, which is the nation's longest-running outdoor cold-weather bowl game, will get the sixth selection from the Mountain West. The game will be scheduled for December of next year.

Mountain West commissioner Craig Thompson is also excited about the new partnership.

"We are pleased to have the opportunity to add the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl to our bowl line-up," said Mountain West Commissioner Craig Thompson. "The geographical fit and the fact that many fans can drive or have a short flight to Boise is a huge plus. Our friends at Utah State have expressed their very positive experience with the bowl game and we look forward to participating in 2013."

This year's Famous Idaho Potato Bowl is set to be played by Toledo and No. 22 Utah State on Saturday in Boise, Idaho at Broncos Stadium. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. MST and will be aired on ESPN as the bowl season's second bowl game.