This week on the Idaho State Coaches Show, live from the Union Tap Room in Old Town Pocatello, Idaho State head football coach Cody Hawkins looks back at the Bengals’ 29–17 win over Utah State in Logan.
Coach Hawkins breaks down a standout defensive performance that produced four turnovers, limited scoring opportunities, and included a crucial fourth-and-goal stop at the one-yard line. He discusses why winning the turnover battle and keeping opponents out of the end zone matters more than yardage totals, along with the role short fields played in helping the Bengal offense control the game.
The conversation also covers Idaho State’s red-zone execution and the drive to turn more scoring opportunities into touchdowns. Hawkins highlights the production and leadership of linebackers Jacob Perez and Nate Reynolds, praises the pressure created by the defensive front, and discusses Tre Shorty’s recognition after stepping into a larger role in the secondary.
Hawkins also spotlights the Bengals’ depth, including Nate Abbott’s contributions off the bench, and shares why kicker Mason Lindberg’s preparation, confidence, and integration with the entire team reflect the program’s culture.
Later in the program, the Idaho State Coaches Show welcomes new Bengal head cross country coach Sean Patrick Oswald. Coach Oswald talks about his background in the sport and what brought him to ISU. He also talks about the training that’s required for a successful cross-country team, and we get a quick preview of the team’s upcoming meets.