BILLINGS, Montana – Quarterback Caden Young delivered a masterful performance, accounting for 349 total yards and three touchdown passes as No. 18 College of Idaho defeated Rocky Mountain 37-20 on Saturday afternoon at Herb Klindt Field.
The Yotes improved to 2-0 on the season behind Young’s dual-threat capabilities, as the senior signal-caller completed 23 of 35 passes for 238 yards and three scores while adding a team-high 111 rushing yards on 17 carries.
Fourth Quarter Explosion Seals Victory
After Rocky Mountain’s Darius Haskin hauled in a spectacular 75-yard touchdown reception to cut College of Idaho’s lead to 16-14 in the third quarter, the Yotes responded with authority. Young orchestrated three consecutive touchdown drives in the final frame to put the game away.
The highlight came on a 32-yard touchdown pass to Jacob Morales, who made a circus catch while battling two defenders before tumbling into the end zone. Young also found Torey Watkins for a 5-yard scoring strike earlier in the fourth quarter.
While Young commanded the offense, he received plenty of support from his skill position players. Watkins led all receivers with 10 catches for 71 yards and a touchdown, serving as Young’s most reliable target throughout the contest.
Running back Rylie Byington provided the ground game’s finishing touch, carrying 19 times for 91 yards and capping the scoring with a 1-yard touchdown plunge in the closing minutes. Travis Marieiro also contributed with five receptions for 49 yards and a crucial 4-yard rushing touchdown before halftime.
The Yotes dominated time of possession 40:09 to 19:51 and amassed 484 total yards of offense, including an impressive 246 yards rushing that wore down the Battlin’ Bears defense.
College of Idaho’s defense rose to the occasion when needed most, limiting Rocky Mountain to just 29 rushing yards for the entire game. While Battlin’ Bears quarterback Trent Nobach threw for 336 yards and three touchdowns, the Yotes’ ground control and defensive stops in crucial moments proved decisive.
Haskin was virtually unstoppable through the air for Rocky Mountain, hauling in six catches for 207 yards and two long touchdown receptions, but the Yotes’ ability to control the game on the ground ultimately made the difference.
Looking Ahead
The victory sets up College of Idaho perfectly for their next challenge as they return home to Caldwell for Homecoming weekend. The Yotes will host Montana State-Northern on September 20th at 12:00 PM, looking to maintain their perfect start to the season.
With Young’s dynamic playmaking ability and a balanced offensive attack complemented by opportunistic defense, College of Idaho appears well-positioned for another successful campaign as they climb the national rankings at 2-0.
The Snake River Valley Conference made a statement to open the 2025 season, with four dominant performances highlighting the depth and talent across the league. From shutouts to offensive explosions, Week 0 showcased why the SRV remains one of Idaho’s most competitive conferences.
Payette 41, Parma 0
The Pirates opened their 2025 campaign in commanding fashion, shutting out Parma 41-0 while dominating on both sides of the ball. Payette controlled the line of scrimmage, recording 12 first downs and racking up 381 total yards of offense. Senior Darrien Pecunia led a balanced rushing attack with 95 yards on 11 carries and two touchdowns, while quarterback Jahzyon Sylva contributed 37 rushing yards and 35 passing yards with a touchdown pass. The Pirates’ defense was suffocating, forcing multiple turnovers and getting strong performances from linebackers like Alex Fugate and the secondary. Gabriel Pelayo handled kickoff duties with authority, averaging 41.6 yards per kick. This complete team victory signals Payette’s potential for a breakthrough season in the 4A SRV.
Player of the Game: Darrien Pecunia – 95 rushing yards, 2 TDs, 6 tackles
Fruitland 49, Kimberly 13
The Grizzlies delivered a dominant offensive showcase, overwhelming Kimberly 49-13 behind the stellar dual-threat performance of quarterback Titus Vidalk. Vidalk was nearly unstoppable, throwing for 201 yards and 3 touchdowns while adding 164 rushing yards and another score on the ground for 365 total yards. His favorite targets were Sawyer Tracy (4 catches, 83 yards, 1 TD) and Jaxon Philpot (4 catches, 48 yards, 2 TDs). The Grizzlies’ balanced attack also featured Kendall Wilson contributing 58 rushing yards and a touchdown. Fruitland controlled the game from start to finish, outscoring Kimberly 35-6 in the first half and cruising to victory. This explosive offensive performance signals the Grizzlies are ready to compete for another SRV title.
Player of the Game: Titus Vidalk – 365 total yards, 5 TDs (201 pass, 164 rush)
Homedale 31, Snake River 6
The defending conference contenders delivered a dominant road performance, overwhelming Snake River 31-6 behind a complete team effort. Quarterback Xavier Uranga was efficient and effective, completing 16 of 23 passes for 268 yards and 4 touchdowns with just one interception. His primary target was Colton Martell, who hauled in 6 catches for 140 yards and 2 touchdowns, showcasing excellent chemistry between the pair. Kade Hall was a versatile weapon with 75 rushing yards and strong contributions in the receiving game (3 catches, 42 yards, 1 TD). The Trojans controlled field position and the clock, holding possession for over 24 minutes while limiting Snake River to just 6 points in the fourth quarter. Homedale’s special teams were outstanding, with Lukas Hall averaging 58.3 yards on kickoffs. The balanced 478-yard offensive attack signals the Trojans are ready to defend their SRV crown.
Player of the Game: Xavier Uranga – 16/23, 268 yards, 4 passing TDs
Cole Valley Christian 35, Marsing 6
The Chargers made an emphatic statement in their second year in 4A, dominating Marsing 35-6 behind a balanced offensive attack and stifling defense. Quarterback Blake Van Boven orchestrated the victory with 221 passing yards and 2 touchdowns while adding 22 rushing yards. His top target was Ethan Epler, who hauled in 5 catches for 117 yards and a touchdown, consistently finding openings in the Marsing secondary. The ground game was led by Ashton Shanks, who powered through for 80 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns, providing the physical presence that controlled the line of scrimmage.
Cole Valley’s defense was equally impressive, limiting Marsing to just 6 points while recording multiple sacks and tackles for loss. The Chargers’ special teams unit was outstanding, with Tyler Given booting 6 kickoffs for 352 yards at a 58.7-yard average and converting all 5 PAT attempts. The dominant 35-0 lead through three quarters showcased Cole Valley’s readiness to compete in the 4A classification. This complete performance signals the Chargers could be surprise contenders in the Snake River Valley Conference.
Player of the Game: Blake Van Boven – 12/22, 221 yards, 2 passing TDs + 22 rushing yards
Week 0 proved the SRV Conference is loaded with talent and ready for another exciting season. With performances like these across the board, fans can expect fireworks when these teams start facing each other in conference play.
The 2025 high school football season is fast approaching, and the Snake River Valley Conference promises to deliver another year of compelling storylines, fierce rivalries, and championship-caliber competition. This year brings an intriguing new wrinkle: McCall-Donnelly is partnering with Meadows Valley for football, potentially reshuffling the conference hierarchy. After analyzing team schedules, recent performance data, and program trajectories, FLOWW Network presents our preseason power rankings for all six SRV squads.
The Conference Landscape
The Snake River Valley Conference underwent a significant transformation when Cole Valley Christian joined the 4A ranks in 2024, and Parma moved down to 3A. Last season saw Weiser capture the conference crown with a perfect 5-0 conference record, ending Homedale’s remarkable run of six championships in seven years.
But championship pedigree runs deep in this conference, and 2025 could see a familiar face back on top.
The numbers don’t lie when it comes to Homedale’s sustained excellence. Over the past seven seasons, the Trojans have compiled an astounding 70-9 record while capturing six conference championships. Even in their “down” year of 2024, they finished with a better overall record (10-2) than conference champion Weiser (8-3). They also met Sugar-Salem in the 2024 Idaho Football Championship, where they ultimately loss 28-14.
Under longtime head coach Matt Holtry, Homedale has become the gold standard for Snake River Valley football. The program’s consistency stems from strong coaching stability, excellent player development, and a championship culture that expects nothing less than playing for state titles.
Key Returning Players: The Trojans return a solid core led by senior running back Javid Blewett, who was first-team all-conference and rushed for 113 yards in the crucial comeback win over Fruitland. Senior quarterback Xavier Uranga was second-team all-conference and threw for 222 yards in the state championship game, giving him invaluable experience heading into his final season. Senior receiver Chance Martell (second-team all-conference) provides a veteran target, while junior linebacker Tyce Fisher (second-team all-conference) anchors a defense that knows how to make big stops.
“When you have the ability to throw the ball and run the ball, teams have to prepare for both,” Holtry noted about his balanced offensive approach. That versatility, combined with championship experience, makes Homedale the team to beat in 2025.
The Trojans enter the season with revenge on their minds after watching Weiser celebrate a conference championship last fall. Expect a motivated Homedale squad that remembers exactly how that felt.
Don’t expect the Wolverines to relinquish their crown without a fight. Weiser’s perfect 5-0 conference record in 2024 included statement victories like a 14-0 shutout win over then-No. 3 Fruitland and a dominant 70-13 demolition of Payette.
The Wolverines have built their recent success on physical, hard-nosed football that wears down opponents over four quarters. Their championship run in 2024 proved they can peak at the right time and handle pressure situations.
Key Returning Players: Weiser returns a formidable group anchored by senior Dylan Ashley, who was first-team all-conference on both offensive and defensive lines – a rare feat that showcases his versatility and dominance. Senior running back Cole Ingle was also first-team all-conference and provided a key component of the championship backfield. Junior Ty Cobb earned honorable mention recognition on the defensive line and could step up as a major force in his senior season.
However, championship hangovers are real in high school football, and Weiser faces the challenge of maintaining that championship edge while dealing with the target that comes with being defending champions. The head-to-head battle with Homedale will likely determine who takes home the 2025 conference crown.
Perhaps no team in the conference experienced more ups and downs in 2024 than Fruitland. The Grizzlies were ranked No. 1 in the state at various points during the season, showing they have the talent to compete with anyone in Idaho.
What makes Fruitland particularly dangerous in 2025 is their dynamic duo of elite talent. Junior quarterback Titus Vidlak, who was named SRV Offensive Player of the Year in 2024, threw for 2,649 yards and accounted for 33 total touchdowns as just a sophomore. Vidlak was even nominated for Idaho Football Player of the Year honors and currently holds three Division I FCS offers.
Protecting Vidlak will be senior offensive tackle Kelvin Obot, quite simply one of the most elite recruits Idaho has produced. The Utah commit is ranked as the #1 player in Idaho and has earned five-star status from Rivals (4-Star from 247Sports), ranking as the #7 overall player nationally. Obot’s recruiting profile includes offers from over 25 programs including Michigan, Oregon, and Nebraska. He’s also a dominant multi-sport athlete, winning state championships in both shot put (54-3.25) and discus (155-0).
Other Key Returning Players: Senior receiver Spencer Tracy was second-team all-conference with 39 catches for 650 yards, providing Vidlak with a proven target. Junior Joel Philpot earned honorable mention with 32 catches and 443 yards, adding depth to the receiving corps. On the lines, senior Xander Eggers (second-team all-conference OL) and Evan Davis (second-team all-conference DL) provide veteran leadership, while junior Rocky Weatherspoon(honorable mention OL/DL) adds versatility.
The inconsistency that plagued them down the stretch – including that shutout loss to Weiser – will be the focus heading into 2025. When Fruitland plays to their potential, they’re capable of beating any team in the conference. With college-level talent anchoring both sides of the ball, the Grizzlies have the pieces to make a serious run at the conference title if they can find the consistency that eluded them in 2024.
#4 McCall-Donnelly/Meadows Valley Vandals – The Strengthened Mountain Program
The biggest storyline heading into 2025 may be the partnership between McCall-Donnelly and Meadows Valley. This cooperative agreement significantly strengthens the Vandals’ roster depth and could be a game-changer for the mountain program.
McCall-Donnelly’s 48-6 demolition of Payette last season demonstrated they already had the talent to dominate overmatched opponents. Now, with additional players from Meadows Valley joining the roster, the Vandals should have better depth and potentially more explosive playmakers.
Key Returning Players: Senior Colt Value is a multi-sport phenom who was first-team all-conference at running back and second-team at defensive back. Value has been to nationals in both track and hockey, showcasing the athleticism that makes him special. Senior tight end/defensive lineman Gunnar Newman was first-team all-conference on both sides of the ball, providing a key two-way threat. Senior defensive back Ethan Roberts earned second-team all-conference honors and brings veteran leadership to the secondary.
Playing football in the mountains comes with unique challenges – long travel distances, smaller player pools, and harsh weather conditions for late-season games. The Meadows Valley partnership directly addresses the player pool concern, giving the Vandals more bodies and competition in practice.
This could be the move that elevates McCall-Donnelly from conference middle-of-the-pack to legitimate contender. Don’t be surprised if the strengthened Vandals pull off an upset or two against the conference’s traditional powers.
Payette faces the difficult task of competing with programs that have significantly more resources and larger talent pools. The Pirates’ 70-13 loss to Weiser epitomized the gap they’re trying to close with the conference’s elite programs.
Key Returning Players: Senior quarterback Darrien Pecunia earned honorable mention recognition and completed 6-of-11 passes for 52 yards and two TDs, while adding 78 rushing yards and two more scores in a key win. Senior offensive lineman Eli Lopez was second-team all-conference and anchors the Pirates’ front line. Senior receiver Michael Ocampo provides an experienced target in the passing game.
However, high school football is about more than wins and losses, and Payette continues to field competitive teams that represent their community with pride. The Pirates will be looking to build momentum and potentially steal a conference victory against a team that might be overlooking them.
#6 Cole Valley Christian Chargers – The New Challenge
The Chargers’ transition from 2A to 4A competition continues to be a work in progress. Head coach Jordan Henslin takes over the program and faces the challenge of competing with established programs like Homedale and Weiser that have significantly more resources and larger talent pools. Cole Valley’s 54-0 loss to Homedale on senior night exemplified the talent gap they’re working to close.
Key Returning Players: Junior Ethan Minegar was second-team all-conference as a receiver and brings youth and potential to the rebuilding effort. Junior linebackers Tyler Harr and Carson Kile both earned honorable mention recognition and could emerge as defensive leaders.
While wins may be hard to come by in conference play, the experience gained from competing at the 4A level will be invaluable for the program’s long-term development.
The 2025 Snake River Valley Conference race shapes up as a two-team battle between Homedale and Weiser, with Fruitland capable of playing spoiler and the newly strengthened McCall-Donnelly/Meadows Valley partnership adding an intriguing wild card element. The Trojans’ championship experience and motivation to reclaim their crown give them a slight edge, but Weiser’s proven ability to win big games makes them a formidable defender.
Regardless of who emerges victorious, Snake River Valley football fans are in for another season of compelling storylines, hard-hitting action, and the kind of small-town football passion that makes high school sports special.
Follow FLOWW Network all season long for comprehensive coverage of Snake River Valley Conference football, including live game coverage, weekly recaps, and playoff analysis. Visit flowwmedia.net for complete schedules and more.
College of IdahoYotes Enter 2025 with High Expectations and Fresh Conference Format
The Yotes football program is gearing up for what promises to be one of their most exciting seasons yet as they prepare for the 2025 campaign under the leadership of veteran head coach Mike Moroski. With a new divisional format in the Frontier Conference and momentum from recent success, the Yotes are positioned to make another strong run at championship glory.
Graphic by Boknowcreative, Collaborated via Instagram – 3 MORE SATURDAYS (as of Sat, Aug. 9th)
A Program Rebuilt to Excellence
Since reinstating football in 2014 after a 37-year hiatus, the College of Idaho has transformed into a consistent contender under Mike Moroski, who has posted a record of 53-38 since taking over the program and was voted the 2019 Frontier Conference Coach of the Year. Moroski, a former NFL quarterback who played for the Atlanta Falcons, Houston Oilers, and San Francisco 49ers, was announced as head coach on January 9, 2013.
The program’s recent trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From 2019 to 2022, the Yotes posted a record of 29–7 and won at least a share of the Frontier Conference each year. Most notably, Moroski’s 2019 team completed a perfect 10-0 league record, winning the Frontier Conference title, reaching the NAIA Football Championship Series quarterfinals, ending the season 11-1 and ranked No. 5.
2024: Building on Semifinal Success
The 2024 season served as a launching pad for even greater ambitions. The Yotes were named preseason favorites to win the Frontier Conference in 2024, garnering 7 out of 9 first-place votes in the Coaches’ Poll, following their historic run to the NAIA semifinals for the first time in program history during the 2023 season.
The Yotes opened the 2024 season in style, defeating Lincoln 45-7 in the first-ever prime-time game at Simplot Stadium, with the offense capitalizing on early opportunities and the defense holding the Oaks to just 110 yards of total offense. However, despite another winning season in 2024, the Yotes narrowly missed out on the playoffs, fueling their determination for the upcoming campaign.
New Conference Format Brings Fresh Opportunities
The 2025 season introduces a significant change to the competitive landscape. The Frontier Conference has unveiled a divisional format for the 14 football-playing schools, featuring East and West Divisions with seven teams each, aimed at enhancing competition and postseason opportunities within the NAIA.
The College of Idaho will compete in the West Division alongside familiar rivals Eastern Oregon, Southern Oregon, Carroll College, Montana Western, Simpson University, and Arizona Christian. This new structure promises intense divisional battles, with the top team in each division based on its best six-game record securing an automatic berth to the NAIA Football Championship Series, with additional at-large berths also in play.
2025 Schedule: A Test of Championship Mettle
The Yotes have assembled a challenging schedule designed to prepare them for postseason success. College of Idaho will kick off the 2025 season at home on Saturday, Aug. 30 against Eastern Oregon, setting the stage for what could be a pivotal divisional matchup right from the start.
Key games on the schedule include:
September 6: at Rocky Mountain
September 20: MSU-Northern at home
September 27: at Montana Tech
October 4: at Simpson University (West Division)
October 18: Montana Western at home (West Division)
October 25: at Eastern Oregon (West Division)
November 1: Arizona Christian at home (West Division)
November 8: at Carroll College (West Division)
November 15: Southern Oregon at home (West Division)
The slate culminates with a Nov. 15 showdown against Southern Oregon in Caldwell to close out the regular season, potentially serving as a division-deciding contest.
What to Expect in 2025
Under Moroski’s experienced leadership, the Yotes have established themselves as a program that consistently competes at the highest level of NAIA football. Since 2014, the Yotes have produced 8 All-Americans, 56 all-conference selections, and 26 NAIA All-Academic selections, demonstrating excellence both on the field and in the classroom.
The program’s offensive philosophy has evolved to become increasingly potent, with the 2024 team showing glimpses of explosive potential. Defensively, the Yotes have built a reputation for aggressive, swarming defense that can control games against quality opponents.
Championship Aspirations
With a strong returning core and a determined mindset, the Yotes are already looking ahead to training and preparation for a pivotal 2025 campaign. The new divisional format provides a clearer path to the playoffs while maintaining the competitive intensity that has defined Frontier Conference football.
For a program that has already reached unprecedented heights in recent years, 2025 represents an opportunity to take the next step toward a national championship. With Moroski’s proven leadership, a challenging schedule that will prepare them for postseason play, and the motivation of narrowly missing the 2024 playoffs, the College of Idaho Yotes are positioned to make 2025 a memorable season.
As FLOWW Network begins its coverage of College of Idaho athletics, football fans can expect compelling storylines throughout the season as the Yotes pursue their championship goals in an increasingly competitive and restructured conference landscape. The stage is set for what could be one of the most exciting seasons in program history.
The College of Idaho Yotes will open their 2025 season on Saturday, August 30, when they host Eastern Oregon at Simplot Stadium in Caldwell. For the latest updates and coverage, follow the team’s progress throughout the season.
The wait is over, Snake River Valley! We’re beyond excited to announce the complete 2025 football schedule for all six powerhouse programs.
Get ready to catch every snap, every touchdown, and every game-changing moment from:
• Homedale Trojans
• Fruitland Grizzlies
• Cole Valley Christian Chargers
• McCall-Donnelly Vandals
• Payette Pirates
• Weiser Wolverines
ALSO: McCall and Meadow Valley are joining forces this season – this partnership is going to bring some serious firepower to the field!
**Note: Weiser hosts Pendleton on September 19th**
From opening night to championship runs, FLOWW Network will be bringing you coverage of these incredible programs throughout the season. Whether you’re a parent, alumni, or just love supporting local high school athletics, this is going to be an incredible season to remember!
We’re proud to be covering the Snake River Valley for our 3rd year! Thank you for all the love and support we’ve gain over the last few years. We’re glad to be back at it.
A longtime Idaho high school football coach with more than three decades of experience was arrested Wednesday on charges of sexual abuse of a child under 16, according to local reports.
Kip Erik Crofts, 59, was taken into custody by the Nampa Police Department and is currently being held on charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor. Crofts had been coaching at Caldwell High School since 2023, according to a Facebook post from the Caldwell School District that welcomed him to the program.
Extensive Coaching Background
From Idaho Statesman
Crofts built a notable coaching career spanning 32 years across multiple Idaho high schools, including several championship-winning programs:
Meridian High School (2007-2012): Crofts led the Warriors to their most successful period, capturing a 5A state championship in 2007 with a perfect 12-0 record. This marked Meridian’s second state title in three years. However, the program struggled in his later years, finishing 1-8 in his final season before he resigned in December 2012.
Bishop Kelly High School (2013-2015): After leaving Meridian, Crofts served as junior varsity defensive coordinator at Bishop Kelly, where he was part of the coaching staff during the Knights’ historic run of three consecutive 4A state championships from 2013-2015.
Payette High School (2016-2021): Crofts took over a struggling Payette program that had endured decades of futility, including an infamous 80-game losing streak that ended in 1992. Under his leadership, the Pirates showed gradual improvement, achieving their first Snake River Valley Conference victory since 2014 during the 2020 season. Despite the challenges, Crofts called a key victory that season one of his “top-five moments in 32 years of coaching.”
Caldwell High School (2023-present): Crofts joined the Caldwell program in 2023, according to district social media posts welcoming him to the school.
Current Status Unclear
As of Wednesday evening, Crofts remained listed on Caldwell High School’s staff directory, though it’s unclear whether he is currently serving as the team’s head coach. The Caldwell School District has not yet responded to requests for clarification about his employment status.
Unconfirmed reports circulating on social media suggest Crofts may have been placed on administrative leave from Caldwell High School prior to his arrest due to alleged inappropriate behavior within the school, though these claims have not been officially verified by school district officials.
Investigation Ongoing
The Nampa Police Department has not released additional details about the investigation or the specific circumstances surrounding the charges. This remains a developing story as authorities continue their investigation.
The arrest represents a stunning fall for a coach who had been a fixture in Idaho high school football for more than three decades, working with student-athletes across multiple school districts in the Treasure Valley region.
11:31 – ROCKY – Tuff Adams 7 yd pass from Trent Nobach (Austin Drake kick) 8 plays, 85 yards, TOP 3:29
10:19 – COI – Jackson Ames 6 yd pass from Caden Young (Josh Horn kick failed) 13 plays, 91 yards, TOP 6:10
SNAKE RIVER VALLEY SCHEDULE RELEASE! 
Get ready to catch every snap, every touchdown, and every game-changing moment from:
Thank you for all the love and support we’ve gain over the last few years. We’re glad to be back at it.
