Football rivals ISU, UI announce creation of Potato State Trophy

The University of Idaho and Idaho State University announced the official introduction of the Potato State Trophy, a traveling rivalry trophy awarded to the winner of the annual football game between the two schools.

The Potato State Trophy officially replaces the retired Battle of the Domes Trophy which was discontinued ahead of the 2023 season after the trophy sponsor, adjusted its sponsorship with both institutions.

Idaho head coach Jason Eck made a temporary trophy for the 2023 game, he titled the Potato State Trophy with a Mr. Potato Head on the base of the Battle of the Domes Trophy, but it wasn’t a permanent solution.

This offseason, a University of Idaho Athletics staff member carved the new trophy, a large wooden potato, out of a piece of North Idaho Douglas Fir.

A metal cutout in the shape of the state, with an etching of the athletic logos of the two schools over their geographic location was created and donated by longtime Vandal booster Nick Davis. It is mounted on the lefthand side of the base.

Idaho’s nickname is the Gem State but is known worldwide for its potatoes. Potatoes are a $4 billion industry in Idaho, supporting over 30,000 jobs. Most of the fields in the state are located Southern Idaho, near Pocatello, but U of I potato research and extension offices are vital for the industry. Potatoes truly unite both institutions.

“Potatoes are synonymous with Idaho and the University of Idaho is a big part of the potato industry,” Eck said. “We look are excited to compete for the Potato State Trophy.”

“The Big Sky Conference is the greatest conference in FCS football, complete with rich traditions and storied rivalries that go back over 50 years,” Idaho State head coach Cody Hawkins said. “Having grown up in Idaho, I understand the great privilege it is to coach at one of these prestigious universities and am excited to be part of the new chapter of our rivalry with the Vandals. The Potato State is my home, and I'm excited to get our Bengals ready to compete for the Potato State Trophy for years to come!"

Idaho leads the series 32-13 all-time, but just 3-2 since returning to the Big Sky Conference in 2018. The Vandals won last year’s game 63-21 in Moscow.