Idaho State 38, UC Davis 36: Late FG secures win

POCATELLO, Idaho – October 26, 2024 –

Idaho State University delivered a thrilling upset victory on Saturday afternoon, defeating visiting UC Davis 38-36 at Holt Arena. The Bengals snatched the win on a dramatic 50-yard field goal from kicker Trajan Sinatra with only 52 seconds remaining on the clock, emphatically snapping the Aggies’ impressive five-game winning streak and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

The victory was anchored by an absolutely dominant ground performance from Idaho State running back Dason Brooks. Brooks tore through the UC Davis defense for an incredible 219 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries, consistently moving the chains and keeping the Bengals in contention throughout the high-scoring affair. His yardage total marked a new career high and was pivotal in ISU’s offensive success.

The Big Sky Conference matchup was a seesaw battle from start to finish, with both teams exchanging blows and momentum shifts. UC Davis, who entered the contest ranked 24th in the latest FCS Coaches Poll and boasting one of the conference’s top defenses, struggled to contain Brooks and ISU’s opportunistic offense. The lead changed hands multiple times, setting the stage for a tense fourth quarter. As the clock wound down, with the score tied at 36-36, Idaho State engineered a crucial final drive, putting the ball at the UC Davis 33-yard line. From there, Sinatra, with ice in his veins, calmly split the uprights from 50 yards out, securing one of the biggest wins in recent Bengals history.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the resilience and determination our guys showed today,” said Idaho State head coach Bob Griffin after the game. “To go toe-to-toe with a team as talented and hot as UC Davis and come out on top speaks volumes about their character. Trajan stepped up big under immense pressure, and Dason Brooks was simply unstoppable. He put this team on his back and gave us a chance every time he touched the ball.”

Sinatra, modest despite his game-winning heroics, commented, “I just focused on my technique and trusted the snap and hold. It’s an incredible feeling to contribute to a win like this, especially against such a strong opponent at home.” Brooks echoed the sentiment, praising his offensive line. “The holes were there all day. This wasn’t just my performance; it was a team effort from the linemen to the receivers blocking downfield. This win means everything for our momentum.”

Prior to Saturday’s contest, UC Davis (now 6-3 overall, 4-2 Big Sky) had been on a tear, establishing themselves as a serious contender in the Big Sky Conference. For Idaho State (now 3-6 overall, 2-4 Big Sky), the upset provides a much-needed jolt of confidence and significantly brightens their outlook for the remainder of the season. It marks a significant statement win for the Bengals, demonstrating their capability to compete with the conference’s elite and potentially turn their season around.

Idaho State will look to carry this momentum into their next matchup as they travel to face perennial powerhouse Montana State next Saturday. UC Davis will aim to rebound at home against Weber State. For full Big Sky Conference standings and upcoming schedules, visit the official conference website.