The Montana Grizzlies faced off against the Montana State Bobcats in a highly anticipated national semifinal showdown. The Grizzlies received the opening kickoff, but their offense faltered quickly, resulting in a three-and-out that allowed the Bobcats to take early control of the game.
Montana State capitalized on the opportunity, executing a swift scoring drive. Quarterback Justin Lamson ended the 7-play, 60-yard drive with a 4-yard rushing touchdown, putting the Bobcats on the scoreboard with a 7-0 lead just four minutes into the contest.
The Grizzlies struggled on their subsequent drive, managing only 11 yards and securing a single first down before having to punt it back to their rivals. This early deficit added pressure on Montana, which previously suffered a narrow defeat to Montana State in their regular season finale, losing 31-28. This playoff matchup marks a historic occasion, as it is the first playoff meeting between the two programs and the first time they have faced each other twice in a single season since 1913.
Montana State comes into this game with momentum, boasting a remarkable 12-game winning streak following early losses against Oregon and South Dakota State. Meanwhile, Montana’s stellar season record is highlighted by their only defeat at home to the Bobcats last month. The stakes are high, as the winner of this rivalry battle will advance to Nashville, TN, to compete in the FCS National Championship against either Illinois State or Villanova.
With both teams looking to solidify their legacies in the playoffs, the intensity is palpable as fans eagerly await the outcome of this historic matchup.