FRISCO, Texas — A matchup of undefeated Montana State and perennial champion North Dakota State is set for the Football Championship Subdivision title game this Monday night, generating excitement and anticipation among fans of college football.
Both teams have displayed resilience and skill throughout the season, and their respective quarterbacks—Montana native Tommy Mellott for the Bobcats and Cam Miller for the Bison—are no strangers to this high-stakes game. Remarkably, both players were also starters when Montana State faced North Dakota State for the title three years ago.
Montana State head coach Brent Vigen reflected on the significance of the moment, stating, “It is poetic to see both quarterbacks lead their teams to this game.” For Miller, who will make his 54th consecutive start for North Dakota State, this matchup not only highlights their capabilities but also speaks volumes about the character of both players.
The Bobcats enter the game with an impressive 15-0 record, seeking their first national title since 1940. Conversely, North Dakota State, with a record of 13-2, boasts nine championships out of their last ten title game appearances. Their last victory came against Montana State, who, after losing their starting quarterback early on, suffered a 38-10 defeat.
Reflecting on the past, Mellott expressed motivation from the earlier loss. “When I walked off the field, it was just a feeling of, are we ever going to be able to get back here? Ever since, it's really just been motivation to earn the right to go back and play,” noted Mellott.
Throughout the current season, Mellott has demonstrated exceptional skill as the only active FCS player with at least 3,000 yards passing and rushing combined. This season, he has thrown for 2,684 yards and 29 touchdowns with only two interceptions, contributing to the elite performance of the Bobcats' offense. With 915 rushing yards and another 15 touchdowns, Mellott’s versatility has made him instrumental to Montana State's chances.
Miller, also no slouch, has carved out his own impressive season with 3,052 passing yards and 31 touchdowns against just four interceptions, marking his efficiency as North Dakota State's starting quarterback.
The two teams will also rely on powerful freshman running backs, with Montana State's Adam Jones and North Dakota State's CharMar Brown each contributing significantly to their offenses this season. Jones has amassed 1,134 yards, being the first rusher from the school to cross the 1,000-yard milestone since 2017, and Brown has topped 1,104 yards, marking the first time North Dakota State has seen such production from its running backs since 2019.
Historically, these two schools have met 39 times, with Montana State holding the all-time series lead at 21-17. Yet, North Dakota State has won the last five encounters, all of which took place during playoff seasons. This history adds layers of intensity to the upcoming championship match, as both teams are eager to cement their legacy.
If recent statistics are any indicators, the championship is poised to be thrilling, with Montana State and North Dakota State both ranked among the top offenses. Montana State leads the nation with scoring opportunities converted at 96.8%, closely followed by the Bison's 93.0%. These figures, coupled with their respective defenses, promise to provide fans with an exhilarating contest.
The game will be the last championship contest hosted at Toyota Stadium before expected renovations, adding historical significance to this matchup. It is also worth noting the competitive edge as both teams are coming off strong playoff performances and want to leave their mark.
Mellott’s growth since the last title game loss cannot be overstated. After consolidators facing two years of injuries and rotations at quarterback, he has transformed the Bobcats’ offense this season, spurring them to league-leading scoring averages.
Mellott’s ambition and leadership skills have grown tremendously. Coach Vigen expressed confidence, stating, “Tommy has been phenomenal, and he needs to be phenomenal one more time.” Mellott has played every game this season with exceptional stats, pushing past each obstacle he faced early on.
On the opposing side, North Dakota State’s new head coach Tim Polasek, who has significant coaching ties to both schools, offers insight as they head toward their latest quest for glory. “What I hope for everybody watching ... is to see two leaders of their teams who have mastered what they can do,” Polasek said.
Fans are avidly awaiting what promises to be another historic chapter between these iconic programs. The tension is palpable as kickoff approaches, and with it, the chance for one of these teams to become FCS champions. Will Montana State finally claim victory? Or will North Dakota State continue its championship dominance?