Century to Host Idaho Falls for Playoff Spot
The two football teams will face off in Pocatello today with hopes of securing a state tournament berth.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Football
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Century High School and Idaho Falls High School compete in a football game on October 16, 2026, at Century High School. The winner of this matchup gains a crucial opportunity to secure a spot in the 12-team 5A state tournament.
Why it matters
Both programs hold identical 3-4 records and are fighting to improve their standing in the MaxPreps rankings. A victory offers the winner a path to overtake the loser of the Shelley and Bonneville game, potentially locking in a playoff position.
Century enters the game ranked No. 13 in 5A, while Idaho Falls follows at No. 14. The teams are competing for a position in the 12-team state tournament field, with kickoff set for 7 p.m.
The players
Century High School
This is a high school based in Pocatello that maintains a football program currently ranked No. 13 in the 5A division.
Idaho Falls High School
This is a high school located in Idaho Falls that is currently ranked No. 14 in the 5A division.
The details
The game at Century High School serves as a critical tiebreaker scenario for teams currently sitting on the bubble of the playoff bracket. Last season, Century defeated Idaho Falls 42-33 in their previous meeting.
Timeline
October 16, 2026: The game is scheduled to take place.
7 p.m.: Kickoff time for the football game.
Season Trajectory
This matchup serves as a decisive pivot point for the 12-team 5A state tournament bracket. The winner gains significant momentum to climb the MaxPreps rankings and leapfrog regional rivals in the final playoff push.
The winner of this game is expected to move up in the MaxPreps rankings, potentially displacing the loser of the Shelley and Bonneville game. This shift is the primary variable in determining which team secures a spot in the upcoming 5A state tournament.
The takeaway
Securing a win in this late-season matchup is essential for both teams to extend their athletic seasons. Fans should note that the MaxPreps rankings serve as the official metric for determining the final 12-team playoff field.
What happens next
The state tournament is scheduled to begin in two weeks, where the successful teams will compete for the championship.
Further reading
For more updates on the local prep season, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by East Idaho News.
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