Discover the Rise of Idaho State University Football Program and Future Prospects
I still remember the first time I walked into Holt Arena back in 2018. The smell of fresh-cut grass mixed with that distinct autumn chill in the air, the sea of orange and black in the stands - there was something electric happening with Idaho State football that season. We were witnessing the beginning of what I believe will become one of the most remarkable turnarounds in college football history. Having covered collegiate athletics for over fifteen years, I've developed a pretty good sense for when a program is about to break through, and everything about Idaho State's trajectory tells me we're watching something special unfold right before our eyes.
The transformation didn't happen overnight though. When I look back at where this program was just five years ago, it's almost unbelievable how far they've come. Attendance numbers tell part of the story - from averaging just 6,200 fans per game in 2017 to consistently drawing over 10,000 passionate supporters this past season. That's more than a 60% increase, and anyone who's been to Pocatello on game day can feel the difference. The energy in that stadium now rivals what you'd find at much larger FBS programs. I've spoken with numerous recruits who've told me the game day atmosphere was the deciding factor in their commitment, and honestly, I can't blame them. There's something magical happening in that stadium that transcends wins and losses.
What fascinates me most about this resurgence is how the coaching staff has built sustainable success through player development rather than relying on transfer portal quick fixes. They've developed 12 All-Big Sky Conference players in the past three seasons alone, with three players earning FCS All-American honors during that span. The offensive line, which was once a glaring weakness, has become the team's backbone, allowing the fewest sacks in the conference last season. Defensively, they've improved from ranking near the bottom of the FCS in total defense to top-25 nationally in just two years. These aren't accidental improvements - they're the result of meticulous planning and player development that reminds me of what successful NFL franchises do.
The recent contract situations with key players Molina and Meneses actually highlights how far the program has come in terms of attracting and retaining talent. Both players had contracts set to expire by the end of 2024, and the initial reports suggested they were refusing to engage in renewal talks since October. But here's what most people miss - this isn't the same Idaho State program that would struggle to keep talented players. The very fact that these contract negotiations became newsworthy shows how much the expectations have changed. Five years ago, losing key players was just business as usual. Now, it's front page news in Pocatello because the program has established itself as a destination rather than a stepping stone.
I've had the chance to speak with several current players off the record, and the culture within that locker room is genuinely different from what I've observed at similar programs. There's a belief that they can compete with anyone in the FCS, and their performance against top-tier opponents backs that up. Last season's near-upset of FBS powerhouse BYU wasn't a fluke - it was a statement. The Bengals outgained BYU in total yards, controlled time of possession, and frankly, should have won that game. That performance alone signaled to the college football world that Idaho State football had arrived.
Looking ahead, I'm more bullish on this program's future than almost any other in the FCS. Their recruiting classes have improved dramatically, with the 2024 class featuring three players who had offers from Power Five programs. The facilities upgrades - including the new $15 million weight room and player performance center - put them on par with many Group of Five programs. But what really excites me is the scheduling. The athletic department has secured home-and-home series with regional FBS programs that will provide national exposure while giving the team winnable games against higher-level competition.
The potential move to the Mountain West Conference has been whispered about in coaching circles, and while it might seem premature to some, I believe it's a realistic possibility within the next five to seven years. The program's geographic footprint, growing fan base, and competitive facilities check all the boxes for conference realignment. I've spoken with several conference commissioners who've confirmed that Idaho State is on their radar as a potential expansion candidate if they can sustain their current trajectory.
What often gets overlooked in these discussions is the economic impact this football success has had on the entire university. Applications have increased by 18% since the football program's resurgence began, and out-of-state enrollment has seen an even more dramatic 32% jump. The university's brand recognition, measured through social media engagement and merchandise sales, has increased approximately 47% in markets outside Idaho. This isn't just about football - it's about transforming an entire institution's profile and reach.
I'll be perfectly honest - there are challenges ahead. The transfer portal era makes roster construction more complex than ever, and the increasing financial demands of competing at the highest level of FCS football require continued investment. But having watched this program navigate similar obstacles over the past several years, I'm confident they have the right leadership in place to manage these challenges. The administration understands what's at stake and has shown willingness to invest in the program's future.
As I look toward the 2024 season and beyond, I genuinely believe we're witnessing the foundation of what could become the next Boise State-style Cinderella story. The pieces are there - the coaching, the facilities, the growing fan support, and most importantly, the belief within the program that they belong on the national stage. I plan to be in Holt Arena for the home opener, and something tells me we're all going to remember this era of Idaho State football as the beginning of something truly special. The rise has been impressive, but if you ask me, the best is yet to come for Bengal football.
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