Boise St.'s Petersen shoots down Mississippi St. rumor

Dec 6, 2008 - 3:12 AM BOISE, Idaho (Ticker) -- After a day of internet rumors created a frenzy that had Boise State coach Chris Petersen heading to Mississippi State, the Broncos' coach released a statement on Friday saying he was not joining the SEC school.

"I have a lot of respect for director of athletics Greg Byrne and the Mississippi State athletic program, but I am not taking the head-coaching position at Mississippi State," Petersen said. "Mississippi State has not offered me the head-coaching position. I normally do not comment on coaching positions at other schools but felt I needed to do so in this situation.

"We are very happy here at Boise State and look forward to our upcoming bowl game later this month. Thanks."

Mississippi State's coaching job is open following the resignation of Sylvester Croom.