Main Story

Idaho State dominated Portland State early and held on for a 38-8 win, spoiling coach Chris Fisk’s return to his hometown. The Vikings rallied briefly after halftime, but a costly fumble in Bengals territory halted their comeback before Idaho State added two late touchdowns.

By the Numbers
  • Idaho State outgained Portland State 341-57 in the first half and led 24-0 at halftime.
  • Portland State finished with 56 net rushing yards; the Bengals entered the game allowing 200.9 rushing yards per game.
  • Gabe Downing completed 16 of 26 passes for 173 yards, all in the second half.
  • Jaxton Helmstetler recorded a career-high 14 tackles.
  • With 2,020 career rushing yards, Delon Thompson moved into 12th place on Portland State’s all-time list.
Yes, But

Portland State showed life after the break, scoring a touchdown and getting a safety to cut into the deficit. But Nathan Reynolds’ forced fumble on a 35-yard pass play near the Idaho State goal line stopped the Vikings’ best chance to make it a one-score game.

What’s Next

Portland State returns home next Saturday to host Idaho at 1 p.m. on Halloween.

Bottom Line

The second-half spark wasn’t enough to overcome a lopsided opening half—and the Vikings’ turnover erased their clearest path back into the game.