The Montana State Bobcats have achieved a remarkable milestone this season, earning a chance to vie for their first national championship in 40 years. The top-seeded Bobcats defeated South Dakota 31-17 in the FCS semifinals on Saturday at Bobcat Stadium, securing a spot in the title game set for January 6 in Frisco, Texas.
Under the leadership of standout quarterback Tommy Mellott, Montana State improved its record to 15-0, marking their second championship appearance in four years under coach Brent Vigen. They will face North Dakota State in the finals, a team they previously lost to in the 2021 championship game.
The semifinal matchup featured a series of lead changes, beginning with a 34-yard touchdown pass from Mellott to Taco Dowler, followed quickly by a 55-yard touchdown run from South Dakota’s Travis Theis. The back-and-forth continued with scoring plays from both teams, but the Bobcats ultimately established control thanks to a key sack by Kenneth Eiden IV, which set the stage for a 24-14 lead at halftime.
Mellott’s standout moment occurred in the third quarter when, after recovering from a botched snap, he sprinted 41 yards for a spectacular touchdown. Despite some tense moments, including a disallowed fumble recovery by Montana State and a fourth-down stand in the red zone against South Dakota, the Bobcats maintained their lead.
Mellott not only delivered strong offensive plays but also directly influenced the game’s flow, leading the team’s relentless effort towards their championship goal. The defense, particularly highlighted by Eiden’s pivotal sack, played a crucial role in limiting South Dakota’s scoring opportunities.
Montana State’s achievement is not just a testament to their skill but also reflects the team’s exponential growth under coach Vigen. With a 31-1 record at home and an impressive overall coaching record of 47-9, the Bobcats are poised to make history as they aim for the much-coveted national title.
As the Bobcats head into the championship game, the reverberations of their successful season offer hope not only for the team but also for their fans and the community, underscoring the power of perseverance and teamwork in the pursuit of greatness.