Former Bishop Kelly High star quarterback to take over Idaho State football program

One of the top high school quarterbacks in Idaho history is returning to his home state to coach.

Bishop Kelly High graduate Cody Hawkins will take over as the head coach of the Idaho State football program, the university announced Friday afternoon.

“Coach Hawkins exhibited in every way that he is the right person to lead Idaho State football into the future,” Idaho State Athletic Director Pauline Thiros said in a news release. “He is Idaho-grown, well-connected across our recruiting footprint, is the architect of a prolific scoring offense, and has the right values at the right time.

“I know Coach will offer our student-athletes what they need most to perform at their best. He is innovative and a culture builder.”

Hawkins replaces Charlie Ragle, who left after one season to become the assistant head coach and special teams coordinator at Arizona State.

Hawkins arrives at Idaho State after six seasons at UC Davis, where his father and former Boise State football coach Dan Hawkins is the head coach. The younger Hawkins served as the Aggies’ defensive coordinator the last three seasons but has also held roles as the wide receivers coach and in quality control.

During his time with the Aggies, Hawkins helped lead the team to multiple FCS playoff appearances and a Big Sky Conference championship in 2018.

“I could not be more excited to help Pauline and President (Kevin) Satterlee create an amazing student-athlete experience here at Idaho State,” Hawkins said. “Growing up in this great state, I have watched the Bengals for as long as I can remember. I have been in Holt Arena when it was rocking, and I look forward to building a program the Idaho State community, alumni and fans are proud of.

“Tianna and I want to sincerely express how much it means to us to be moving home and have the opportunity to help this program honor its history and heritage by creating great memories and results, on and off the field.”

Before joining UC Davis, Hawkins led Los Angeles Valley College to its best record in school history (11-0) and a state championship as its offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. He has also served as a graduate assistant at Ohio State and in 2015 Hawkins was the quarterbacks coach and play caller for the U.S. Men’s National Team, helping it claim the title of 2015 IFAF World Champion.

“Coach Hawkins will lead our program with integrity, skill and genuine enthusiasm,” Satterlee said. “His vision to build our football program through a championship culture will inspire our team. Cody will be a great partner, leader and member of our Bengal community.”

Hawkins played quarterback for Bishop Kelly High under legendary coach Tim Brennan. During his high school career, Hawkins went 24-0 as the Knights’ starting varsity quarterback and won back-to-back state championships in 2004 and 2005. He was twice named the Idaho Statesman’s 4A All-Idaho Player of the Year. Hawkins went on to play for his dad at Colorado, where he set school records for passing yards and passing touchdowns.

Hawkins and his wife, Tianna, have a daughter, Finley, and a son, Bowen.

Hawkins’ introductory press conference will air live on ESPN+ beginning at 3 p.m. Mountain time Sunday.