Chalich picks up player of week award
Idaho quarterback Chad Chalich, a redshirt freshman from Coeur d'Alene, was named independent offensive player of the week by College Sports Madness after collecting 424 total yards in a 26-24 win over Temple on Saturday.
The Vandals (1-4) are one of seven independent teams in FBS, joining Notre Dame, BYU, New Mexico State, Army, Navy and Old Dominion.
Chalich is believed to be the first UI quarterback to throw for at least 300 yards and run for at least 100 yards. He was 26 of 43 for 310 yards through the air and he ran for 114 yards on 14 carries, including a clutch 10-yard run late in the fourth quarter on third-and-10. He also scooted around the left corner on an option keeper for 52 yards earlier in the game.
The last time an Idaho quarterback rushed for 100 or more yards was Doug Nussmeier, who ran for 107 in a 49-16 victory over Boise State on Nov. 20, 1993. He threw for 198 yards in that game. On Oct. 20, 1984, Scott Linehan rushed for 104 yards and threw for 248 in a 32-25 loss to Eastern Washington.
"It’s a great experience," Chalich said after the game. "It’s a great win for me and especially for this team."
Idaho hosts 23rd-ranked Fresno State on Saturday at 2 p.m. before embarking on a two-game road trip. The Bulldogs (4-0) have opened as a 241/2-point favorite.