The Keydets opened their 2026 campaign on a rough note, falling 38‑10 to Idaho State in a game that quickly slipped out of reach.
Offensive firepower
Idaho State’s quarterback Jordan Cooke carved up the VMI defense, finishing with 325 passing yards and four touchdown passes that kept the visitors comfortably ahead.
The second half produced a flurry of big plays, including a 49‑yard strike from Cooke to Chedon James and a 38‑yard connection with Eli Aragon‑Cruz that stretched the lead further.
Defensive highlights
VMI’s defense showed moments of promise, with Nic Land leading all tacklers with six solo takedowns and an interception, while safety EJ Wilborne added a key pick that set up another Idaho State score.
Idaho State’s running back Halim Hardnett also broke off a 47‑yard rush midway through the fourth, underscoring a balanced attack.
VMI finally got on the board late in the fourth quarter when Chandler Wilson broke off a 31‑yard rush for the Keydets’ only touchdown, finishing with 62 rushing yards on seven carries.
Julina Mason emerged as Idaho State’s top receiver, hauling in eight passes for 77 yards, while the Bengals improved to 1‑0 and the Keydets fell to 0‑1.