IdaGriz01
Well-known member
Haley posted a fairly long article at STATS.com about the return of the University of Idaho to the FCS level.
http://www.fcs.football/cfb/story.asp?i=20180215094528828207504
Some interesting quotes:
Had not realized that UI never got up to the FBS limit on schollies. That probably explains, in part, why they were never really competitive on a regular basis. And I assume it was a financial decision … the program could not afford that many full rides.
Ouch! on their 2018 schedule. If they do happen to be “in the hunt” by November, going off to Florida for a money game (where they will surely get pounded) will not be helpful.
http://www.fcs.football/cfb/story.asp?i=20180215094528828207504
Some interesting quotes:
I knew about the other Vandal sports returning to the Big Sky a few years back … just wonder which have not yet done so, and if they will eventually.Haley said:Vandals working toward return to FCS, Big Sky
… After 22 seasons on the FBS level, they are returning to the FCS and the Big Sky, where they played as a founding member from 1963-95 …
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It's debated nationally whether others schools will make such a drop, but what the Vandals are more concerned with is restoring their program to a winning level. Most of the other sports at the Moscow, Idaho, school returned to the Big Sky in 2014.
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[Paul] Petrino, the 50-year-old younger brother of Louisville coach Bobby Petrino, grew up in Montana and is well-versed in Big Sky history. …
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The drop to the FCS meant Idaho had to reduce to the 63-scholarship limit, but it's been easier than some may think. The Vandals were never at the FBS limit of 85 scholarships, topping out at 80 last season.
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The Vandals have two FBS opponents on their schedule each of the next five seasons - all on the road. The 2018 regular season is bookended by games against Fresno State (Sept. 1) and Florida (Nov. 17), and their return to Big Sky competition is Sept. 22 at UC Davis.
Had not realized that UI never got up to the FBS limit on schollies. That probably explains, in part, why they were never really competitive on a regular basis. And I assume it was a financial decision … the program could not afford that many full rides.
Ouch! on their 2018 schedule. If they do happen to be “in the hunt” by November, going off to Florida for a money game (where they will surely get pounded) will not be helpful.