The University of Idaho football program enters the 2026 season with modest preseason expectations from the Big Sky Conference, ranking sixth in the media poll and seventh in the coaches poll.
The dual rankings position the Vandals in the middle tier of Big Sky competition as the conference prepares for the upcoming fall campaign. Head coach Thomas Ford Jr., quarterback Joshua Wood, and linebacker Cruz Hepburn represented the program at Big Sky Kickoff Weekend in Spokane, Washington, where the preseason polls were released.
Idaho’s 2026 schedule includes three appearances on ESPN, providing the program with significant national exposure. Two of those broadcasts are scheduled for Friday night slots, giving the Vandals prime-time opportunities to build momentum during the conference season.
The preseason rankings reflect a program in transition as it continues to compete within the Big Sky’s competitive landscape. With the coaching staff and key players in place, Idaho heads into training camp with opportunity to prove the preseason assessments either conservative or optimistic.