Following an impressive 29-17 road upset over Pac-12 opponent Utah State, a pair of Idaho State standouts have been recognized with major weekly awards. Defensive back Tre Shorty and kicker Mason Lindberg were named the Big Sky Conference Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week, marking the first career Big Sky weekly honors for both Bengals.
Lindberg’s historic performance also earned him the Stats Perform FCS National Special Teams Player of the Week award, a first for the program in the Cody Hawkins era. The sophomore specialist was automatic, accounting for 17 total points, matching Utah State's entire offensive output on his own. Lindberg went a perfect 5-for-5 on field goal attempts from distances of 28, 48, 25, 43, and 41 yards, with his 48-yard strike in the first quarter setting a new career best. He also cleanly converted both PAT attempts and managed kickoff duties for the team.
On the defensive side of the ball, Shorty delivered a signature performance to secure his Big Sky honors. He intercepted two passes, becoming the first Bengal to record multiple interceptions in a single game since Charles Ike against Cal Poly in 2022. Shorty’s first pick included a critical 42-yard return that set up the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter, while his second interception in the final minutes successfully iced the game. Anchored by Shorty, the Idaho State defense forced four turnovers on the night while the offense played a clean, turnover-free game.
The 29-17 victory marks Idaho State’s first win over an FBS opponent since 2017.
Lindberg, Shorty, and the rest of the Bengals will look to carry their momentum back home to the gridiron this Saturday. Idaho State will host the San Diego Toreros at the ICCU Dome, with kickoff scheduled for 4:00 p.m.
