College of Idaho Earned Number One NAIA Ranking
The undefeated football program secured the top spot in the latest national poll after an impressive start to the season.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Football
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The College of Idaho football team has achieved a number one ranking in the NAIA poll following a dominant 6-0 start to their campaign. Caldwell residents and supporters have watched the team maintain an unblemished 2-0 record in the Frontier Conference.
Why it matters
The team reached the top ranking after successfully navigating recent injuries on the offensive front during spring practice. This shift in national status highlights the effectiveness of the squad's versatile offensive schemes.
The College of Idaho holds a 6-0 overall record and a 2-0 conference standing. Their recent performance includes a 34-17 victory over Montana Tech and a 65-0 shutout against Simpson University.
The players
Preston Chamberlin
He is a tight end for the College of Idaho football team and a 2024 graduate of Elko High School.
College of Idaho
This private liberal arts college based in Caldwell, Idaho, fields a football program currently competing in the Frontier Conference.
The details
Tight end Preston Chamberlin, a 2024 Elko High School graduate, provides depth to an offense that rotated players between the tight end and tackle positions during spring sessions to manage personnel shortages. The team utilizes a balanced offensive attack, splitting its play-calling between run gap and zone schemes.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: The team defeated Montana Tech 34-17.
October 3, 2026: The team secured a 65-0 win over Simpson University.
October 6, 2026: The team was officially ranked number one in the NAIA poll.
October 16, 2026: The team is scheduled to play against the Montana Western Bulldogs.
November 6, 2026: The team will face Carroll College.
Season Trajectory
This number one ranking establishes the College of Idaho as the frontrunner for a high seed in the upcoming postseason playoffs. The team's successful management of offensive personnel shifts positions them favorably against upcoming Frontier Conference rivals.
The team's current undefeated status and number one ranking increase the importance of upcoming games against Montana Western and Carroll College for playoff seeding. Continued offensive output is vital to maintaining their position atop the NAIA poll through the November schedule.
The takeaway
The team demonstrates that adapting roster roles under pressure can yield significant on-field success. Implementing a flexible offensive strategy has been a key factor in their rise to the top of the national rankings.
Further reading
For more updates on the program, visit the Caldwell Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Elko Daily Free Press.
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