POCATELLO, ID – The echoes of cleats on concrete and the crisp smell of fresh turf will signal the return of high school football for two Idaho communities as the Rockland Bulldogs and the Sho-Ban Chiefs prepare to kick off their 2025 campaigns. In a unique neutral-site conference showdown, the two teams are set to face off under the bright lights of the Idaho Central Credit Union (ICCU) Dome this Friday, August 29th, at 1:00 PM.

Game Details:

• Who: Sho-Ban Chiefs vs. Rockland Bulldogs

• What: Neutral-Site Conference Football Game

• When: Friday, August 29, 2025, at 1:00 PM

• Where: ICCU Dome, Pocatello, ID

• Live Stream: Watch on NFHS Network!

This matchup is more than just a season opener; it’s a battle of pride, community, and the pure, unadulterated spirit of eight-man football. For players, coaches, and fans alike, the opportunity to play in a premier venue like the ICCU Dome adds a layer of excitement and prestige to the start of the new year.

A Neutral Ground for a Conference Battle

Typically, conference games are hard-fought battles on home fields, surrounded by familiar bleachers and hometown crowds. This neutral-site game at the state-of-the-art ICCU Dome in Pocatello offers a unique experience for both teams. It levels the playing field, removing any home-field advantage and placing the focus solely on preparation, skill, and execution.

For many of these student-athletes, playing in a domed stadium is a rare and memorable opportunity, one that promises to create lasting memories regardless of the final score. The controlled environment ensures perfect football conditions—no wind, no rain, just the game in its purest form.

Scouting the Rivalry: Rockland Bulldogs

The Rockland Bulldogs enter the 2025 season with determination. As a program that embodies the grit and resilience of their community, every game is played with heart and tenacity. This opening conference game is a critical first step in setting the tone for their season. A strong performance against a familiar league opponent like Sho-Ban could provide the momentum needed to chase a conference title and a deep playoff run. All eyes will be on the Bulldogs’ key playmakers to see who steps up in this early-season test of character and skill.

Scouting the Rivalry: Sho-Ban Chiefs

Hailing from Fort Hall, the Sho-Ban Chiefs represent a community with a rich cultural heritage and a passionate fan base. Football is a point of pride, and the Chiefs are known for their athleticism and speed. This game represents a fresh start and a chance to make an immediate statement in the conference standings. For Sho-Ban, a victory in the impressive backdrop of the ICCU Dome would be a powerful way to inaugurate the new season and build confidence for the challenges ahead.

What’s at Stake

While it may be the first game of the year, this conference matchup carries weight. Early conference wins are crucial for seeding and positioning later in the season. Both teams will be looking to:

• Establish an Identity: Coaches will be evaluating which offensive schemes work and which defensive units can rise to the occasion.

• Gain an Early Advantage: A win here puts one team immediately in the driver’s seat within the conference hierarchy.

• Build Team Chemistry: There’s no better test for a team’s bond than a close, hard-fought game under the lights of a major venue.

How to Follow the Action

Fans who cannot make the trip to Pocatello are encouraged to check with their respective school districts and local media outlets for potential live updates or streaming information. Follow the official social media channels of the Rockland Bulldogs and the Sho-Ban Chiefs for real-time scores and highlights.

Mark your calendars and get ready for some football. This Friday, under the dome, it’s more than just a game—it’s the beginning of a new chapter for both the Rockland Bulldogs and the Sho-Ban Chiefs.