The 2008 Sun Bowl is often remembered for the infamous 3-0 win for Oregon State over Pitt, making it the lowest-scoring bowl game in history. Despite the lackluster game, the enduring memory of this game is the halftime show, where the Village People performed their 1978 hit “YMCA,” setting a world record for the largest performance of the dance.

The 2008 Sun Bowl featured two ranked teams with high-scoring offenses. Oregon State, led by coach Mike Riley, had one of the deepest rosters in program history, while Pitt was led by coach Dave Wannstedt and included future NFL All-Pro running back LeSean McCoy. Both teams were expected to light up the scoreboard. However, injuries and extremely windy conditions turned the game into a punt-off, with 20 punts in total. The game ended with a 3-0 score in favor of Oregon State.

The real highlight of the 2008 Sun Bowl was the halftime performance by the Village People. The iconic 1970s band set a Guinness World Record for the largest performance of the dance. Legendary broadcaster Verne Lundquist, who was on the mic for the game, remembers the halftime show as the real fun of the day. After the game ended, the Village People showed up at the postgame party, much to the delight of the attendees.

Despite the disappointing game, the halftime show and the overall experience of the Sun Bowl made it a memorable event. The game’s participants, fans, and broadcasters still remember it fondly, albeit with a good dose of humor.

While the 2008 Sun Bowl might have been a letdown in terms of football action, it will always be remembered for its unique halftime show and the unexpected turn of events that made it a one-of-a-kind bowl game experience.