Montana State Bobcats have secured their place at the top of the FCS football league by decisively defeating the South Dakota Coyotes with a score of 31-17 on December 21, 2024, at Bobcat Stadium, Bozeman, Montana. This victory not only advances the Bobcats to the national championship game but also reinforces their dominance with a stellar 15-0 record this season.
The Bobcats, under the leadership of head coach Brent Vigen, delivered an impressive performance highlighted by key plays from quarterback Tommy Mellott and defensive end Brody Grebe. After the game, Mellott expressed his enthusiasm for extending the football season, stating, "It’s absolutely a blessing to keep playing football... we came up short there two years ago... But, we’re back to where we belong." His positive outlook reflects the determination the team has shown throughout the playoffs.
Throughout the semifinals, Montana State showcased its offensive prowess, which has been the hallmark of their successful season. The Bobcats have averaged 41.3 points per game, establishing themselves as one of the strongest teams offensively in the FCS. During the semifinal match against South Dakota, Mellott delivered standout performances, contributing to the win significantly with 259 total yards and three touchdowns.
On the defensive side, Grebe played a pivotal role. He made the game-clinching fumble recovery late in the fourth quarter. Reflecting on the defensive efforts, Grebe noted, "We knew we had to get those out because besides [the explosive plays], they weren’t having a ton of success." This defensive strategy was instrumental as they limited South Dakota's scoring opportunities effectively throughout the second half.
Notably, this championship appearance will pit the Bobcats against their historic rivals, the North Dakota State Bison. It’s worth mentioning the competitive history between these two teams, as North Dakota State has emerged victorious in their last four playoff meetings, including the previous season's nail-biting 35-34 overtime decision. The upcoming championship is highly anticipated, with the Bobcats eager to avenge past defeats and secure their first championship title since the beginning of this competitive era.
Vigen also spoke of the team's outlook, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and composure. "Let’s not get too sentimental. We want another game on the other side," he stated, highlighting the team’s ambition to achieve greater success. The seniors, particularly touched by the sentiment of their final home game, remain focused on shutting out distractions and channeling their energy toward the championship match.
Looking at the matchup, the Bobcats boast one of the most formidable rushing attacks, averaging over 300 rushing yards per game, fueled by their powerful offensive line. This has set them up well against North Dakota State's defensive strategies. The offensive line, anchored by All-American right tackle Marcus Wehr, poses challenges for any defense, aiming for consistency and strength at the point of attack.
The Bison, armed with their own powerful ground game and capable quarterback Cam Miller, are no easy adversaries either. Miller’s capabilities as both a passer and rusher make NDSU's offense versatile. With over 3,000 passing yards this season and the emergence of standout receiver Bryce Lance, they present a well-rounded threat against the Bobcats.
Montana State has shown resilience and adaptability, traits which will serve them well against NDSU. Brody Grebe reiterated the need to get back at their rivals, declaring, "Pretty excited, I’m glad it’s NDSU. We got something to prove there." This statement encapsulates the Bobcats' collective mindset heading to Frisco.
Overall, the upcoming FCS national championship is set to be not just another game, but a passionate contest filled with emotions, rivalries, and the quest for redemption. For the Bobcats, the focus now shifts fully to winning this title, as they prepare to showcase their determination and talent on January 6, 2024, at Toyota Stadium, Frisco, Texas.
