BOZEMAN — For the second time this season, the Montana State Bobcats and Idaho Vandals are set to clash under the lights at Bobcat Stadium this Friday, December 13, at 7 p.m. This FCS quarterfinal playoff game pits the undefeated Bobcats, currently ranked No. 1 nationally, against the eighth-seeded Vandals, who have been on their own strong run this season.
Having won their first meeting of the season 38-7 back on October 12, the Bobcats (13-0) are determined to advance to the semifinals for the fourth time in five seasons. A victory against Idaho would solidify their impressive record and propel them closer to the championship.
Idaho (10-3), meanwhile, is eager to bounce back from last year's quarterfinal defeat and aims to reach the semifinals for the first time since 1993. Both teams received first-round byes before securing their places in this showdown: MSU decisively defeated UT Martin 49-17, and Idaho toppled Lehigh 34-13.
Coming off impressive performances, the Bobcats lead the FCS across several categories, including points per game (41.3), total yards per game (496.5), and rushing yards per attempt (6.89). These numbers highlight their potent offense, which relies heavily on the running game, gaining 360 yards on the ground during their last matchup against Idaho.
Leading the charge for MSU is senior quarterback Tommy Mellott, who had a standout performance last week, completing 22 of 25 passes for 300 yards and four touchdowns. His ability to connect with both receivers and the run game has made him one of the most formidable quarterbacks this season.
For Idaho, the defensive front is led by Keyshawn James-Newby, who is currently the Big Sky leader with 10.5 sacks this season. His performance, alongside fellow first-team All-Big Sky selections such as defensive lineman Dallas Afalava and linebacker Jackson Eck, will be pivotal if the Vandals are to contain the explosive Bobcat offense.
Despite some injury setbacks, the Bobcats remain optimistic. They will be without All-Big Sky first-team fullback Rohan Jones for the second week due to injury, but backup options are ready to step up. The Cats are also unsure about the availability of running back Scottre Humphrey, who is dubbed a game-time decision. Idaho's starting quarterback Jack Layne, who missed the previous game against MSU, is back and shows promise after recovering from injury.
Touching on the significance of the rivalry, this upcoming game is more than just playoff positioning. The Bobcats have dominated their recent matchups, winning three out of the last four encounters. The Vandals, pushing for redemption, will lean heavily on recent strides made during postseason play.
With only two months separating their last encounter, both teams have familiar faces but also fresh energy as they prepare for the quarterfinals. Idaho's success on offense has been led by Layne and his top receiver, Jordan Dwyer, making them dangerous tight on every play.
Fans are buzzing with excitement as they gear up for the game, which will be broadcast on ESPN, and tickets are still available for die-hard Bobcat supporters eager to see MSU's star players take the field. The air of anticipation is palpable: for the Bobcats, it's about maintaining momentum; for the Vandals, it is about rewriting the narrative.
“Catch the game live on ESPN or stream via The Varsity Network or MSU’s website,” says the announcement from the university, echoing the excitement felt across the campus. This match-up promises to deliver high stakes and thrilling football, reflecting the resiliency and competitive spirit of both teams.
Divided by rivalry yet united by the pursuit of victory, both teams are set for what could be one of the most memorable games of their seasons. The winner will advance to face either South Dakota or UC Davis, adding even more fuel to this highly charged playoff atmosphere.
The FCS quarterfinal game at Bobcat Stadium is poised to be not just another football game but rather a showcase of determination, skill, and the undying spirit of college football.
