In a groundbreaking move, Northern Illinois University has partnered with local distillery Whiskey Acres to release a special edition “Boneyard Blend” bourbon commemorating the Huskies’ historic 16-14 upset victory over the No. 5 ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish in September. The bourbon not only celebrates this landmark win, but also serves as a tribute to the 125th anniversary of NIU athletics.
A Bone-Crushing Victory Deserving of a Toast
NIU’s triumph over Notre Dame sent shockwaves through the college football world. It marked the first time in program history that the Huskies had defeated a top-five ranked opponent. The magnitude of this achievement demanded a celebration befitting its significance.
According to a source close to the university, the idea for the Boneyard Blend was born in the euphoric aftermath of the Notre Dame game. “We knew we had to do something special to honor this moment,” the source revealed. “What better way than to create a unique bourbon that captures the spirit and grit of our team?”
Crafting a Blend Worthy of the Boneyard
To bring the Boneyard Blend to life, NIU partnered with Whiskey Acres, an acclaimed craft distillery located in nearby DeKalb, Illinois. The collaboration aimed to create a bourbon that not only celebrated the Notre Dame upset, but also embodied the rich history and resilience of Huskie athletics.
The bourbon itself is a carefully crafted blend that balances smoothness with bold, distinctive flavors. Each bottle is emblazoned with a striking gold label featuring the NIU 125th anniversary logo, along with the iconic “16-14” score that will forever be etched in Huskie lore.
Joining the Ranks of Boneyard Legends
The concept of the “Boneyard” holds a special place in NIU football tradition. Dating back to 1983, the Huskies have recorded 19 “Boneyard wins” – victories over significantly larger and more resourced programs. These triumphs, which include wins against the likes of Alabama and Iowa, are commemorated with physical bones placed in the Huskie Stadium Boneyard.
The Notre Dame win wasn’t just another bone for the Boneyard. It was a statement to the college football world that NIU is a force to be reckoned with.
– Anonymous NIU Athletics Insider
By immortalizing the victory with the Boneyard Blend bourbon, NIU is elevating the Notre Dame upset to legendary status. It’s a tangible symbol of the grit, determination, and belief that define Huskie football.
Toasting to 125 Years of Huskie Pride
The Boneyard Blend release also coincides with a major milestone – the 125th anniversary of NIU athletics. Over the past century and a quarter, Huskie teams have forged a reputation for tenacity, resilience, and a never-say-die attitude. The bourbon serves as a fitting tribute to this proud legacy.
From the gridiron to the hardwood, from the diamond to the track, generations of Huskie athletes have embodied the spirit of the Boneyard. They’ve defied expectations, shattered barriers, and left an indelible mark on the university and the community.
A Toast to the Tenacious
When Huskie fans raise a glass of Boneyard Blend, they won’t just be savoring a exceptional bourbon. They’ll be toasting to the indomitable spirit that defines NIU athletics. They’ll be celebrating a program that refuses to back down from a challenge, no matter how daunting the odds may seem.
The Boneyard Blend is more than just a commemorative bourbon. It’s a symbol of the grit, pride, and unwavering belief that course through the veins of every Huskie athlete and fan. It’s a testament to 125 years of defying expectations and a tribute to the unforgettable upsets that have shaped NIU’s identity.
So whether you’re a die-hard Huskie fan or simply an appreciator of fine bourbon and underdog tales, raise a glass of Boneyard Blend. Toast to the tenacious spirit of NIU athletics, to the legends of the Boneyard, and to the upset that will forever be remembered as the day the Huskies shocked the college football world.
One sip, and you’ll understand what it means to be a part of the pack.
