Don’t Take a Win for Granted

The Aztecs’ series with Idaho is not very old and not many games have been played. But enough that some lessons have been learned… so don’t assume an easy win in today’s Homecoming game with a 3:30 kickoff.

There have been only four games played, and the series is tied, 2-2.The first game was in 1996, won by the Aztecs, 40-21. In 2002, the Aztecs visited the Kibbie Dome (as odd a stadium as I have seen), favored to win. But we limped home losers, 48-38. Not what I had hoped for at my 600th game.

We returned the favor in 2008, beating the Vandals, 45-17, in Aztec Warrior Stadium. Back to the Kibbie Dome in 2009, the Aztecs were expected to win again. Wrong. Idaho thumped Brady Hoke’s Aztecs, 34-20.

Based on their Won-Lost record (1-7), this year’s Vandals don’t look too threatening. But they have speed and size, and a very good offense. While I am convinced the Aztecs will win, it’s not automatic. One advantage: we are not playing in the Kibbie Dome. So, let the Sky Show be a celebration of win #5 this season.

Aztec QB Adam Hall (with protection from Johnathan Ingram) passed for 506 yards vs. Idaho in 2002; Ryan Lindley passed for 433 yards vs. the Vandals in 2008 (photos by Ernie Anderson)

GO AZTECS!