Monday’s Famous Idaho Potato Bowl became memorable for reasons far beyond the on-field action, thanks to one of the most bizarre and unintentional gaffes in ESPN broadcast history.
As Fresno State faced off against Northern Illinois, eagle-eyed viewers couldn’t help but notice something highly unusual—and completely inappropriate—on the broadcast graphics. Fresno State’s mascot, typically known as the Bulldogs, was mistakenly listed as the “Bulldongs.” Yes, you read that right: “Bulldongs.”
How Did This Happen?
The typo appeared early in the game and immediately caught the attention of fans. Somehow, someone in ESPN’s production team had mistakenly added an extra “n” to the word “Bulldogs,” resulting in the jaw-dropping blunder.
The graphic featuring the NSFW error wasn’t just a fleeting moment—it remained on-screen throughout the game, leaving fans wondering how no one on ESPN’s production team caught the mistake in time to fix it.
Social Media Reacts
Unsurprisingly, the error set social media ablaze. Viewers shared screenshots of their TV screens, with reactions ranging from uncontrollable laughter to secondhand embarrassment.
“Can’t believe ESPN really called Fresno State the ‘Bulldongs’ all game. What a gift,” one fan tweeted.
Another joked, “Well, ESPN certainly made this year’s Potato Bowl unforgettable!”
Memes and GIFs quickly followed, turning the typo into an instant viral sensation.
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A Broadcast Blunder for the Ages
While typos and on-air errors aren’t uncommon, this particular mistake stands out due to its sheer absurdity. It’s unclear whether the typo originated from a simple keyboard slip or an overworked production team, but the fact that it remained uncorrected throughout the broadcast has only added to its legendary status.
To Laugh or to Cringe?
For Fresno State fans, seeing their team referred to as the “Bulldongs” during a nationally televised bowl game might be a mix of embarrassment and hilarity. On the other hand, neutral viewers—and perhaps even some Northern Illinois fans—likely found the gaffe to be the comedic highlight of the evening.
Regardless, the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl has now earned a place in internet lore, thanks to ESPN’s unforgettable typo. While Fresno State and Northern Illinois competed valiantly on the field, it’s safe to say the real MVP of the night was the accidental humor brought to fans watching at home.
Here’s hoping the production team takes this as a lesson in proofreading, ensuring that future broadcasts avoid such ahem creative rebranding.
Until then, the legend of the “Bulldongs” will live on in sports blooper history.
