The 2023 NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) National Championship, held on January 6, 2023, at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, was set to feature the Montana State University Bobcats aiming for their first national title since 1984 against the storied North Dakota State University Bison, who sought their 10th championship.
Montana State, under head coach Brent Vigen, entered the game undefeated with a record of 15-0, bolstered by star quarterback Tommy Mellott. The Bobcats demonstrated their power on the field with a dominant rushing attack, averaging over 301 yards per game, leading the FCS with 51 rushing touchdowns. Highlights of their season included defeating South Dakota 31-17 in the semifinals, showcasing their prowess.
Conversely, the North Dakota State Bison, holding the No. 2 seed and entering the game with a 13-2 record, boasted nine national titles since 2011 and were led by quarterback Cam Miller, who excelled during the season with 3,052 passing yards and 31 touchdowns with only four interceptions. Miller's leadership and experience made him one of the most notable players to watch during the championship game.
The atmosphere surrounding the championship was electric, as Montana State fans kicked off the festivities even before the game day. Numerous events drew supporters down to Frisco, showcasing the passionate fan base. Leon Costello, the athletic director at Montana State, reflected on this enthusiasm, stating, "The momentum has just carried us to this point, and it's cool to see everybody make the trip down to Texas to support us."
This sense of dedication was epitomized by former MSU player Jim Kalafat, who celebrated the undefeated season, asserting, "If you're 15-0, it doesn't matter if you play peewee football, high school, college, you got a 15-0 record you've done one hell of a job." The community's support extended beyond game day, fostering hope and excitement as the Bobcats prepared for their pivotal matchup.
The Bison also embodied championship spirit, with head coach Tim Polasek leading them to yet another title opportunity. Their rich history at the FCS level stood out as they aimed to add to their legacy. North Dakota State's storied success was complemented by their incredible fan engagement propelling them throughout the season.
The joint atmosphere at Toyota Stadium was significantly heightened by the Bison's loyal supporters, who took part as both teams battled for supremacy. Fans not only represented their schools proudly but also engaged with various pre-game events highlighting the festivity of the occasion.
Notably, Toyota Stadium’s history as the venue for the FCS championship since 2010 (aside from some times at alternate locations) added to the poignancy of the event. John Wagner, who played a key role in bringing the championship to Frisco, shared his vision for the future of this gathering, emphasizing the benefits it brings to local communities. He remarked, "I think Montanans know it well for the FCS game as well, and they know Frisco well for this game as well."
Both teams were drawn not just by their sportsmanship but also history and tradition, with Montana State winning national championships previously and trying to bridge a 40-year drought since their last title. Meanwhile, North Dakota State aimed to continue their legacy of dominance which established them as one of the foremost programs within the FCS. Each team entered the game with its respective aspirations and stories, energizing fans both on site and at home.
Looking forward to the game kick-off, Coach Vigen's confidence underpinned the Bobcats' preparations. He shared his optimism, saying to the raucous crowd, "We have the best fans in the country and we’re going to prove it tomorrow night." With both teams passionate about clinching the title, the stage was set for an electrifying season finale, promising excitement and unforgettable moments for fans and players alike.
The championship game not only represented the culmination of rigorous physical preparation but also reflected the emotional journeys of both teams and their communities. Montana State aimed to seize their moment; the charged rivalry amplified the thrill associated with college football playoffs. Fans, players, and alumni collectively embraced the significance of this championship game, marking January 6 as not just another match day but as the determination of pride for their teams.
With tens of thousands of viewers online and thousands filling Toyota Stadium, the ambiance promised to be vibrant, filled with cheers, emotions, and memories waiting to be forged. Whatever the outcome, this game stitched together the rich history, present friendships, and future aspirations of both schools.