When a team that's played the state's elite competition within two points meets a program experiencing a resurgence, you get the type of intriguing matchup that could swing either direction on any given Friday night.
That's exactly what unfolds when No. 13 Madison (2-2) travels to face No. 24 Blackfoot (2-1) in a SN Top-25 matchup that showcases two programs both building momentum and capable of making noise in the postseason.
The Bobcats enter having played perhaps the toughest schedule in Idaho, with their only two losses coming to fifth-ranked Hillcrest and sixth-ranked Skyline by a combined margin of just two points. Those razor-thin defeats against elite competition have actually strengthened Madison's resume, proving they can compete with anyone in the state when the game is on the line.
Blackfoot, meanwhile, is in the midst of a transformation. The Broncos went winless in 2023 but have turned things around, going 8-6 since that disastrous season. Last week's 29-point demolition of perennial contender Pocatello served notice that this isn't the same Blackfoot program that struggled just two seasons ago.
Both teams have faced Skyline this season, providing an interesting measuring stick. While Madison fell in a heartbreaker, Blackfoot lost by 14 points, suggesting the gap between these programs may be narrower than their records indicate.
STREAM: Madison vs. Blackfoot, live on NFHS Network.
The key battle will be in the backfield, where both teams feature explosive running threats. Madison's Cache Summers has been a consistent weapon throughout the season, while Brock Hammond recently exploded for 212 yards and two touchdowns. The Bobcats' ground attack gives them the ability to control tempo and wear down defenses.
Blackfoot counters with their own rushing capability, providing a balanced offensive approach that has been the catalyst for their transformation. The Broncos' ability to control games on the ground keeps their defense fresh and allows them to dictate pace.
The quarterback position will also be crucial, with Blackfoot's Austin Arave and playmaker Cade Esplin providing the dual-threat capability that has sparked the Broncos' offensive resurgence.
Madison has historically dominated this series, winning the last two meetings by a combined score of 87-12, but this Blackfoot team appears to be operating on a completely different level than those previous matchups.
Here's everything you need to know about Madison at Blackfoot, including live stream information for the game.
How to watch Madison at Blackfoot football today
- Live Stream: Watch on the NFHS Network (Sign up today!)
Madison at Blackfoot will air live on the NFHS Network. You can subscribe to NFHS Network on a monthly basis or an annual subscription.
Madison at Blackfoot start time
- Date: Friday, Sept. 18
- Time: 7 p.m. MDT
The opening kickoff is set for 7 p.m. MDT on Friday, Sept. 18. The game will be played at Blackfoot High School in Blackfoot.
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