In this episode of the Idaho State Coaches Show, host Scott Gross and Bengals head coach Cody Hawkins reflect on the final stretch of the regular season and the team's mindset following a triple-overtime loss to Montana State. Hawkins discusses how his players are balancing pride in their competitive performance with the drive to clean up small details, noting that ISU's four losses have come by a combined 17 points.
The conversation shifts to Saturday’s road matchup against Montana at Washington-Grizzly Stadium. Hawkins breaks down the Grizzlies' post-bye defensive shift to a more aggressive 3-3-5 scheme, as well as the challenges posed by standout offensive players including quarterback Keali'i Ah Yat, running back Eli Gillman, and wide receiver Brooks Davis. Additionally, Hawkins shares insights on ISU's offensive line adjustments, the importance of practicing with crowd noise, and his long-term vision for building a sustainable playoff-caliber program.