About

The Idaho Vandals football team represents the University of Idaho in NCAA competition. Established in 1893, the program has a long and storied history, competing in various conferences over the years, including the Pacific Coast Conference, Big Sky Conference, Big West, WAC, Sun Belt, and now returning to the Big Sky Conference at the FCS level. Idaho found success in the mid-20th century and became known for its high-powered passing offenses in later years. Under legendary head coach Dennis Erickson, the Vandals won the 1987 Big Sky championship and made deep runs in the FCS playoffs before transitioning to the FBS level in 1996. Notable players in program history include Jerry Kramer, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and key member of the Green Bay Packers’ championship teams under Vince Lombardi. Other standout alumni include Mark Schlereth, a two-time Super Bowl champion, and John Friesz, a record-setting quarterback who won the Walter Payton Award in 1989. In recent years, the Vandals have re-established themselves in the Big Sky Conference. Under head coach Jason Eck, the team has seen a resurgence, returning to the FCS playoffs in 2022 after a strong season. Idaho continues to build on its legacy, aiming to become a perennial contender at the FCS level.