Written by: Brandon Baney
Idaho Falls went 3-6 during the regular season in 2023. But in the expanded 4A postseason, that was good enough to qualify for a postseason spot.
Their reward? A first round matchup with bitter rival Skyline in a rematch of the Emotion Bowl.
After the Grizzlies claimed the regular season battle in a close game, 35-28, the rematch was a little more decisive.
Final score: Skyline 45, Idaho Falls 6.
But here’s the thing: by all measures, it was a successful season for the Tigers.
Their losses included setbacks to Hillcrest and Skyline, both semifinalists, along with Shelley and Twin Falls, another pair of playoff participants.
And some of the losses were downright agonizing: the previously mentioned Emotion Bowl loss to Skyline, a 22-19 setback against Bonneville, and a 28-21 loss to Shelley. If a handful of plays swing Idaho Falls’ way, maybe the Tigers are 6-3 and in a better playoff position.
So optimism is high for veteran coach Marty Duffin and his Tigers in 2024.
They welcome back four All-Conference players on offense in quarterback Bradley Ellison, wide receiver Trey Kirkham, tight end Easton Watkins, and offensive lineman Stockton Kump. All four are seniors.
Likewise, the defense features three seniors who picked up All-Conference honors in 2023: defensive lineman Landon Hatch, linebacker Cooper Moss and defensive back DJ Neider.
Idaho Falls’ schedule is tricky once again in 2024. Five of their nine opponents (Pocatello, Skyline, Minico, Shelley and Hillcrest) were playoff teams a year ago.
If a few varsity newcomers can blend with Idaho Falls’ returning veterans, the Tigers could be in position for a better playoff spot in 2024.