Another season under the bright lights of the Kibbie Dome is upon us, with Vandal football looking to erase the memory of last week’s season opener.
Idaho aims to grab its first win of the season in thehome opener against the Central Washington Wildcats.
There’s no place like dome: Last season the Vandals were nearly unstoppable in the Kibbie Dome, going 4-1 at home last season. With an improved and even deeper roster this upcoming season, Idaho hopes to continue the trend of being a dangerous team inside the Kibbie.
Idaho has dominated during the majority of its home openers with a 29-11 home record inside the Kibbie Dome. The Vandals are currently on a three-game home opener win streak and look to snag a fourth straight win on Saturday.
Idaho football running a scrimmage in practice | Meredith Spelbring Argonaut
Bringing the intensity: While there were few bright moments last weekend, the Idaho defense showed sparks of intensity against Penn State. This should bring optimism to Idaho fans, as this defense looks to be the cornerstone of this team.
Sophomore linebacker Tre Walker led Idaho with eight tackles last week, and will be a key to this defense performing well in the home opener against the Wildcats.
Junior linebacker Christian Elliss makes his return thisweek, showcasing the fierce duo of Walker and Elliss for the first time this season.
The well-talked about Vandal defensive line will make their debut in the Kibbie Dome as well, with an opportunity to show just how disruptive they can be in the passing game and the running game.
Central Washington had the fourth-best offense amongst all Division II schools last season, giving the Idaho defense an opportunity and quiet any doubters and prove why Big Sky offenses should be worried.
Finding a rhythm: The Idaho offense had a difficulttime gaining any momentum last Saturday, converting only one third down the entire day. With the depth of potential and talent on the offense, all eyes will be on the quarterback battle once again, as many still wonder who will control and pick apart the Central Washington defense this weekend.
Expect the run game to be relied upon heavily during the opening quarter. If the committee of Idaho running backs can get hot quickly, this will allow the passing game to open up for senior quarterback Mason Petrino and junior quarterback Colton Richardson.
With only two more games left before Eastern Washington comes to town, Idaho Head Coach Paul Petrino plans to make his decision on the full-time starter in the next two weeks.
Reset and Rewind: A demoralizing loss like last weekend can hurt morale so early on in the season, but the Vandals have an opportunity to reset the script and kick off the season in the Kibbie Dome with a statement win.
Central Washington won’t go out quietly, but Idaho looks to refocus this week to have a chance to take out the Wildcats and continue the home opener win streak.
Where to watch: Idaho will face Central Washington 6 p.m. Saturday and can be watched on Pluto TV.
Follow Vandal Nation for takeaways after Saturday’s game.
Chris Deremer can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @chris_DEREMER