CALDWELL, Idaho — The College of Idaho football team secured a commanding 52-27 victory over Arizona Christian on Saturday afternoon at Simplot Stadium. The win moves the Yotes to a 5-2 overall record (3-2 conference), while Arizona Christian drops to 1-4 on the season.
How It Happened:
Arizona Christian struck first, capping off a 13-play, 75-yard drive with an 11-yard touchdown run by Andrew Trapp. The Yotes quickly responded when quarterback Andy Peters found Jase Applebee for a 42-yard touchdown pass, tying the game at 7-7.
From there, the Yotes took control, scoring three unanswered touchdowns in the second quarter, all through the air. Peters connected with Travis Marieiro (14 yards), Hunter Gilbert (6 yards), and Tommy Hauser (13 yards), giving the Yotes a 28-7 lead at halftime.
The offensive onslaught continued in the third quarter, as Brock Richardso rushed for a 4-yard touchdown, and Peters found John Kreps for a 26-yard score. Arizona Christian attempted a comeback with touchdown passes to Nick Pine and Trent Olson, but the Yotes answered each time, including a 73-yard touchdown run by Caden Young and a 21-yard field goal from William Botch to close out the win.
Defensive Standouts:
The Yotes' defense was led by standout performances across the board. Tanner Leaf registered 11 total tackles, while Eli Mikita contributed with seven tackles and a key sack for an 11-yard loss. Kobe Roberts and Kessler Fjellman each added a sack, helping to pressure Arizona Christian's offense throughout the game. Additionally, Dee'Shon Swafford and Chris Whitney were instrumental in containing the run, with Whitney blocking a punt in the first quarter.
The Yotes' success was also bolstered by the return of offensive lineman Liam Hays, who missed two games after donating bone marrow, saving a life, and going through recovery procedures before returning to the field. The College of Idaho is proud of Hays for his selfless decision to recognize that there's more to life than football, as his life-saving bone marrow donation exemplifies the true spirit of compassion and community.
