History of the Bengals

The Idaho State Bengals have a long and storied history in NCAA sports. From the 1940s to today, the Bengals have been a fixture in college athletics, competing at the highest levels of competition. The team has had numerous successes as an NCAA member school, including several conference championships and multiple appearances in bowl games. In addition to these accomplishments on the field of play, Idaho State has produced some of college football’s greatest players, such as Hall-of-Famers Merlin Olsen and Steve Young.

The early years for Idaho State saw them compete primarily at lower division levels before joining Division I (now FBS) during the 1970's decade when they joined what is now known as Big Sky Conference, where they remain members. During this period, the Bengals enjoyed moderate success with few notable wins, like their win against Utah state aggies, considered one of the most significant upset victories ever recorded by any big sky team. They followed it up with another great season the next year but failed to make it past the first-round playoffs due lack of experience. This led them into dark ages from the late 70s until mid 80's when ISU could not manage even a single winning season despite having a good roster talent-wise.

It wasn't until 1986 that things started turning around for ISU when legendary head coach Larry Smith took charge and brought instant success after leading his team into its first-ever postseason appearance since 1973, along with winning two consecutive conference titles back-to-back during 1987 & 1988 seasons, respectively, cementing his legacy forever among Bengal fans all across the USA.

Since then, there has been no looking back for this proud program which continues its pursuit towards national glory under current head coach Rob Phenicie who recently led his side into yet another post-season last year, making it the third straight bowl game appearance since the 2013 era began proving once again why he is regarded so highly amongst other coaches within big sky community.

From humble beginnings nearly eight decades ago to becoming one of the most competitive teams within the FCS level today, Idaho State Bengals are living examples of how hard work pays off eventually if you stick together through thick & thin!