Idaho State, College of Idaho make rare appearances in national rankings

The Idaho State and College of Idaho football teams received recognition from national pundits on Monday.

The Bengals returned to the top 25 in the Football Championship Subdivision for the first time since 2015, while the Yotes made their program debut in the NAIA rankings.

After a 48-45 victory at Portland State on Saturday, Idaho State broke into the STATS media poll at No. 24 and the FCS coaches poll at No. 25. With two games remaining in the regular season, the Bengals are 6-3 overall and 5-1 in Big Sky play.

”Idaho State football has demonstrated the university’s commitment to excellence that is starting to permeate through our entire community,” Idaho State President Kevin Satterlee said in an emailed press release. “We belong in the Top 25.”

In 2015, Idaho State started the season ranked Nos. 22 and 24 in the media and coaches polls, respectively.

College of Idaho (5-5) made its way into the NAIA Top 25 with five consecutive victories, including four in a row over ranked teams. The Yotes are No. 24 in the poll, earning 22 points from national voters.

C of I closes the regular season at Montana State Northern on Saturday. Kickoff is noon in Havre, Montana.

This story was originally published November 5, 2018 at 6:49 PM.