Montana State and Montana face off in an FCS Semifinal rematch today at 4 p.m. ET on ABC. The No. 2 seed Bobcats host the No. 3 seed Grizzlies at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman. Montana seeks revenge after losing 31-28 on November 22 in the regular-season finale.
🔥 Quick Facts
- First playoff meeting between Montana and Montana State in the historic “Brawl of the Wild” rivalry
- Montana State earned the No. 2 seed with a 12-2 record after winning the Big Sky title
- Montana holds the No. 3 seed with a 13-1 record ranking higher in overall wins
- Winner advances to the FCS Championship Game on January 5, 2026
The Stakes Have Never Been Higher
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This 125th meeting between these arch-rivals carries unprecedented weight. Both programs bring elite credentials into the FCS Semifinals. The Grizzlies finished with just one loss all season, showing championship-caliber consistency. The Bobcats earned the higher seed despite fewer wins, reflecting their strength of schedule and conference dominance.
Home-field advantage favors Montana State at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman. Ticket demand has soared to historic levels as both fan bases converge for playoff football. The winner earns a path to the national championship game in January.
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Just 28 days ago, Montana State escaped Missoula with a 31-28 victory on November 22. The tight game showcased both offenses’ firepower. Caden Dowler recorded a 34-yard interception return for a touchdown in the third quarter that proved critical. Justin Lamson contributed both passing and rushing touchdowns for the Bobcats.
Montana controlled the first half but couldn’t maintain momentum in the final quarter. The Grizzlies have studied that film extensively and aim to correct the mistakes that haunted them. Playing in Bozeman presents a different challenge than home turf advantages the Griz typically enjoy.
| Category | Montana State | Montana |
| Seed/Record | No. 2, 12-2 | No. 3, 13-1 |
| Regular Season Result | Won 31-28 (Nov 22) | Lost 31-28 (Nov 22) |
| Location Today | Home in Bozeman | Road in Bozeman |
| All-Time Series | 44-75-5 deficit | 75-44-5 advantage |
Montana State Rides Momentum as Big Sky Champion
Montana State claimed the Big Sky Conference championship with that 31-28 thriller in Missoula. The Bobcats followed that victory by dominating Stephen F. Austin 44-28 in the quarterfinals. Head coach Jeff Choate’s offense has found rhythm entering the semifinal stage.
Julius Davis carried the load against SFA, accumulating 96 yards. The Bobcats defense forced turnovers and controlled the line of scrimmage. Montana State looks to sustain that form against the Grizzlies‘ defense, which ranks among FCS best.
Montana’s One-Loss Squad Hunts Championship Glory
Montana bounced back from the New 22 loss by demolishing South Dakota 52-22 in the quarterfinals. The Grizzlies hold 23 FCS playoff appearances, tied for the most in the entire subdivision. That veteran experience in playoff football favors Montana.
The Griz appear to hit their stride at exactly the right moment. Their only blemish on the season came to their biggest rival. Playing on the road against Montana State demands perfection, but Montana has shown throughout 2025 they can maintain excellence for four quarters.
Can Montana Beat Montana State Twice in One Season?
History suggests rematches favor the team that won the first matchup, yet circumstances have changed. Montana now understands Montana State‘s tendencies and gameplan adjustments. The Grizzlies defense can prepare to counter Bobcats schemes that worked in Missoula.
However, Montana State owns home-field advantage and championship pedigree. Beating a team twice in one season tests any program, especially in playoff football. The Bobcats have proven they can win under pressure and will seek to clinch FCS Championship Game berth.
