{
  "id": 5224918,
  "title": "Idaho must turn page with game at No. 21 Utah looming",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/03/idaho-must-turn-page-with-game-at-no-21-utah-looming",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-03T02:02:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/idaho-must-turn-page-game-020200876.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "MOSCOW, Idaho – Idaho's loss to Big Sky Conference rival Cal Poly 38-34 on the final play of their season-opening game was a jolt their program didn't need. The Vandals had expected a win, given their 5-0 record against Cal Poly and their reputation of Big Sky teams being mere speed bumps. The Vandals' focus now shifts to a home game against defending Football Championship Subdivision champion Montana State on October 2, but the real test will be their Thursday matchup against Football Bowl Subdivision powerhouse Utah. Here are three key areas to monitor when these teams face off:\n\n1. Can Idaho's defense finally click? The Vandals' defensive line struggled against Cal Poly, failing to pressure quarterback Anthony Grigbsy, who completed four passes and ran for 62 yards and another touchdown. Cal Poly's 197 rushing yards and 319 passing yards highlight Idaho's weaknesses in both defense and tackling. Idaho's linebackers, with Cruz Hepburn leading the way with 12 tackles and a crucial pass breakup, will need to improve their defensive play to limit Utah's offensive gains.\n\n2. Will Idaho's offense step up? Quarterback Joshua Wood, who struggled against Cal Poly, completed 362 yards and two touchdowns in the win against the Mustangs. However, the offensive line, touted as a strength prior to the season, failed to provide adequate protection, resulting in only 119 rushing yards. Running backs Tony Harste (180 yards and two touchdowns) and Ryan Jezioro (93 yards on three deep passes) had standout performances. Yet, the offensive line's ability to block well, both pass and run, will be crucial in limiting Utah's explosive offense.\n\n3. Can Idaho recover from their loss? Before the season opener, coach Thomas Ford Jr. emphasized the importance of end-of-game composure for his team. The loss to Cal Poly, which ended with the game-winning touchdown in the final seconds, shows the Vandals have considerable work ahead. The ability to maintain composure and compete late into the fourth quarter against Utah could significantly impact their season as they prepare for three straight home games, including a crucial matchup against Montana State. Ideally, the Vandals' performance against Utah will help them climb out of their current 4-8 record and generate momentum for the stretch.",
  "summary": "Sep. 2—MOSCOW, Idaho — Losing to fellow Big Sky Conference member Cal Poly, 38-34, on a final-seconds touchdown pass on 4th and 8, in the season-opening game was a rude shock for Idaho, which, based on its 5-0 all-time record against the Mustangs and Cal Poly's recent reputation as a Big Sky speed bump had pretty much penciled this in as a win. The defining game for the Vandals this year was ...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}