Four games into the season, Idaho’s hopes of reaching the FCS playoffs appeared to be lost. The Vandals were 0-4 and desperately searching for answers. Now, just six weeks later, they have an opportunity to accomplish something few would have expected.
For the fourth time this season, Idaho (5-5, 5-2) hosts a ranked opponent, taking on No. 23 UC Davis (6-4, 4-3) on Saturday at 1 p.m. PT in the P1FCU Kibbie Dome. With two regular-season games remaining, winning out would put the Vandals in a strong position to earn an FCS playoff berth and complete a remarkable turnaround.
The Vandals have won five of their last six games, including four consecutive Big Sky victories. UC Davis enters the matchup ranked No. 23 after beginning the season at No. 6, and the program has remained a contender in the Big Sky under third-year head coach Tim Plough.
The Aggies have been inconsistent on the road, with eight games standing between them and their last victory away from home. Despite their struggles, the Aggies have plenty of offensive firepower. Running back Jordan Fisher leads the way with 1,054 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.
UC Davis also features one of the Big Sky’s top receiving threats in Samuel Gbatu Jr. The fifth-year receiver has caught 69 passes for 905 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 90.5 yards per game. Treynor Cleeland has completed more than 60% of his passes for 2,390 yards and 19 touchdowns.
Idaho will need to stay disciplined against an offense that uses shifts and motion to create opportunities for its playmakers. Fisher’s ability to establish the run could open up opportunities downfield.
On the other side, Idaho’s offense will face a defense known for disguising coverages and creating pressure. The Aggies are led defensively by linebacker Porter Connors, who has 69 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks.
Quarterback Joshua Wood will be central to Idaho’s ability to handle that challenge. He has thrown for 2,807 yards through 10 games. Wood also has 11 rushing touchdowns, tied for the most among quarterbacks in the Big Sky.
The Vandals have averaged 461 yards of offense per game against FCS opponents, including a season-high 650 yards in last week’s 62-31 win over Eastern Washington.
Saturday marks the Vandals’ final regular-season home game, with the program recognizing its seniors before their last appearance in the Kibbie Dome. Idaho will also wear America 250-inspired uniforms as part of the university’s upcoming celebration of the country’s 250th anniversary and its Military Appreciation game.
UC Davis won last year’s meeting 28-14. Idaho hasn’t beat UC Davis since the first matchup between the programs in 1997.
The Vandals have already accomplished plenty since their 0-4 start, but their postseason opportunity is now within reach. A victory over UC Davis would move Idaho one step closer to an FCS playoff appearance and give the team a chance to finish its turnaround with two wins that could define its season.