Idaho, Boise State to Revive Football Rivalry in 2031

The two schools will renew their long-standing gridiron matchup after a 16-year hiatus.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Idaho and Boise State have agreed to resume their football rivalry in 2031, much to the delight of Gem State fans who have been eagerly awaiting the return of this storied matchup. The announcement was made at the state capitol, with Idaho Governor Brad Little presiding over the event alongside representatives from both universities.

Why it matters

The Idaho-Boise State rivalry is one of the oldest and most intense in the region, dating back to 1971. The two schools have met 45 times on the football field, with Boise State holding a 34-11 advantage. The renewal of this annual clash is sure to reignite passions among fans and alumni of both institutions.

The details

The two schools last played each other in 2015, with Boise State winning 16-13. Since then, the rivalry has been dormant, much to the disappointment of fans. The new agreement will see the Vandals and Broncos square off on the gridiron starting in 2031, renewing a tradition that has been a fixture of the state's sports landscape for decades.

  • The last time Idaho and Boise State met was in 2015, with Boise State winning 16-13.
  • The two schools have agreed to resume their football rivalry in 2031, after a 16-year hiatus.

The players

Brad Little

The Governor of Idaho, who presided over the announcement of the renewed rivalry between Idaho and Boise State.

Boise State

The public research university located in Boise, Idaho, and a longtime rival of the University of Idaho in football.

University of Idaho

The public research university located in Moscow, Idaho, and the longtime rival of Boise State in football.

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What’s next

The two schools will begin preparations for their first matchup in 2031, with fans eagerly anticipating the renewal of this long-standing rivalry.

The takeaway

The return of the Idaho-Boise State football rivalry is a significant event for sports fans in the Gem State, as it reignites one of the region's most storied and intense college football matchups.