Montana State University (MSU) is on the brink of history as its football team, the Bobcats, has advanced to the FCS national championship for the first time in 40 years. The top-seeded Bobcats triumphed over South Dakota with a score of 31-17 in the FCS semifinals held at Bobcat Stadium. This victory propels them into the title game scheduled for January 6 in Frisco, Texas.
With a flawless record of 15-0, this marks the Bobcats’ second appearance in the championship game under Coach Brent Vigen in just four seasons. They will face the formidable North Dakota State University (NDSU), who are seeded second and hold a record of 13-2. The Bobcats aim to capture their first national championship since 1984.
The semifinal clash showcased a thrilling exchange of touchdowns. MSU’s quarterback, Tommy Mellott, demonstrated his prowess early by connecting with Taco Dowler for a 34-yard touchdown pass, putting the Bobcats ahead 7-0. South Dakota quickly responded with a 55-yard touchdown run by Travis Theis, showcasing the back-and-forth nature of the game.
As the game progressed, Mellott added another touchdown with a 5-yard run, but the Coyotes kept pace with a 45-yard TD scramble from Charles Pierre Jr. The turning point of the match came when Kenneth Eiden IV executed a crucial sack on USD’s quarterback Aidan Bouman, helping MSU gain a more substantial lead. Mellott showcased his extraordinary talent with a remarkable 41-yard touchdown run after recovering a mishandled snap.
Despite some nervous moments, including a potential fumble return for a touchdown by MSU that was ruled out, the Bobcats’ defense proved to be resilient, stopping South Dakota in critical fourth-down situations during the final stretch of the game. A late fumble recovery sealed the Bobcats’ victory and secured their path to the championship.
Coach Brent Vigen has achieved exceptional success during his tenure, leading the Bobcats to an impressive home record of 31-1 since his arrival in 2021 and an overall 47-9 record at MSU. His leadership and the team’s dedication have fostered a spirit of optimism, bringing them closer to a coveted national title.
Looking ahead, the Bobcats have the opportunity to conclude their remarkable season on a high note against NDSU, a team they faced in the 2021 championship game. This matchup not only serves as a chance for redemption but also embodies the tenacity and determination that the Bobcats have displayed throughout the season.
As Montana State gears up for this monumental game, the enthusiasm and support from the community continue to grow, offering hope for a victorious outcome and a celebrated return of the national championship to Bozeman.