Todd Payne is entering the sixth fall camp of his career. The Idaho Falls, Idaho-born and raised Bengal has made a name for himself with the Bengals after transferring to ISU from Montana State his sophomore year.
Payne’s father played for the Bengals from 1988 to 1992 under Coach Garth Hall and Tim Davis. This season. The Bengal has the chance to continue yet another legacy as he was named eh 2023 #25 holder, honoring Bengal inspiration Marcus Jackson.
Football has been a big part of Payne’s life not only did his father play, but Payne also got to look up to his older brother who played at Eastern Oregon University.
What Brought You into the Game of Football? – “I was like every other kid,” remarked Payne. “My older brother played football and my dad played football so when the opportunity came for me to play tackle football in 4th grade, I wanted to play and since then I have fallen in love with the game and I wanted to follow in my family’s footsteps.
The one thing that keeps me in the game playing is the brotherhood that this team has and the relationships that I have built since I have come to Idaho State. I love my teammates and I love the game of football. I love football and being around great people, teammates and coaches have kept me in the sport.”
What is Your Fondest Memory in the Sport? “My fondest memory was when Idaho State beat UC Davis in 2021. I played the majority of that game when we beat #7 Ranked UC Davis that will always be one of my fondest memories.”
Who Has Been an Outstanding Mentor to You? “If I had to say I have one mentor, it would 100 percent be my father. Whenever I have problems or things I don’t know, If I am ever in a difficult situation or I have genuine questions, the one person who has always been that backbone is my dad. I know he's always going to give me real feedback and that’s one of the things I've always appreciated about him. He’s been my idol. I Look up to him in so many ways, he has always believed in me and has pushed me to get better every day and reach my full potential.
How Did You Find Out You Would Be Wearing the Number 25? “I found out in the spring; it was the day before our spring showcase. Coach Runda and Coach Hensley pulled me aside before a meeting, they wanted to bring it back. Coach Hensley stuck his neck out for me and said ‘If there is anyone who should wear the number it’s him’.
I’d been the same number since I got here, But I knew the tradition with Rasheed Williams, Kody Graves, and of course, Marcus Jackson. It’s an honor for sure.
When they presented the jersey to me, we got Marcus on a Zoom call and he gave us some motivational words, it was so special for me to be presented the jersey in front of [Marcus].”
How Do You Spend Your Freetime? “I’m a huge outdoor fanatic, I love hunting and fishing and spending time with my wife. I will always go outdoor hunting and fishing. “
What is the One Meal You Could Eat Every day? It would have to be a big ribeye steak with a baked potato. My mom makes this cheesy asparagus with parmesan, it’s all I want to have.
Finally, If You Could Pass on One Piece of Advice to Future Bengals? “The piece of advice that I would give is to enjoy every moment, take every moment as it is, and don’t take any time for granted. I am starting my sixth fall camp this year and I cannot believe how fast time has gone by. Realize how special this opportunity is and go take advantage of it every day, you don’t get them back and it goes faster than you think.”
Todd Payne and the Bengals open the season Saturday, Sept. 2nd facing the San Diego State Aztecs.
The Bengals open the home season on Sept. 16 against the University of Northern Iowa in the newly renovated Holt Arena. Single Game and Multi-Game ticket packages are on sale now.
