FCS Championship Preview: North Dakota State vs. Montana State Showdown

The Historic Rivalry

As the FCS Championship approaches, fans are abuzz with anticipation for the much-anticipated showdown between Montana State Bobcats and the North Dakota State Bison. This isn't just a game; it's a critical chapter in a long-standing rivalry that dates back to their first playoff encounter in 2010, a match that would spark the beginning of NDSU's dynasty in the FCS. The Bison remain dominant, holding nine championships to their name, while the Bobcats seek to reclaim their glory after a long drought since their last title run in 1984.

How They Got Here

Montana State Bobcats

Montana State enters the championship with an impressive 15-0 record, carrying the title of the best team in the FCS as reflected in their performance metrics:

• SP+ Rankings: 1st overall, 1st on offense, 2nd on defense
• Key victories include notable wins against New Mexico (35-31), Idaho (38-7), and a dominant playoff run that saw them overpower UT Martin (49-17), and Idaho (52-19).

With a scoring average of 41.3 points per game, the Bobcats have displayed a formidable offensive front. Quarterback Tommy Mellott has played a pivotal role, illustrating exceptional versatility throughout the season. He has transformed into a dual-threat quarterback, achieving significant milestones including 915 yards rushing and 14 touchdowns, alongside a stellar TD-to-INT ratio of 29-to-2. His supporting cast includes standout running backs Scottre Humphrey and Adam Jones, who have collectively racked up over 2,494 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns.

North Dakota State Bison

On the other hand, the North Dakota State Bison are hungry to add another championship trophy to their collection, boasting a 13-2 record. Their performance demonstrates a solid defense which has improved as the season progressed. Some highlights of their journey include:

• SP+ Rankings: 3rd overall, 2nd on offense, 5th on defense
• Key wins, including those against South Dakota State (28-21) and Mercer (31-7), showcase their resilience.

The Bison are known for their balanced approach, scoring 21.5 points per game. Quarterback Cam Miller has shown his experience throughout the season, passing for 3,052 yards and posting 31 touchdowns while maintaining efficiency. The Bison's signature style combines a strong ground game with a powerful offensive line that can physically dominate the opponent.

Full-Circle Moments in Coaching

This championship matchup is particularly poignant, as both teams are coached by former NDSU staff members—Brent Vigen at Montana State and Tim Polasek at North Dakota State. Their history adds an emotional layer to the contest, with both coaches deeply connected to the respective programs they now lead. Additionally, both teams' trajectories highlight their hard-won battles to reach this pinnacle stage, emphasizing everything they’ve learned from previous encounters.

Key Players to Watch

For Montana State:

• Tommy Mellott: As mentioned, Mellott’s ability to extend plays with both his legs and his arm will be crucial in facing NDSU's fierce defense.
• Scottre Humphrey: The sophomore running back will look to exploit defenses, averaging decent yards per carry throughout the season.

For North Dakota State:

• Cam Miller: His leadership and poise will be tested as he navigates the high-pressure environment of a championship game.
• Eli Mostaert: The defensive tackle will aim to disrupt the Bobcats' offensive rhythm, utilizing his experience against their stout offensive line.

The Venue Shift to Nashville

While Frisco, Texas, has been the proud home of the FCS Championship for over a decade, Nashville's acceptance as the next host provides a refreshing change. The upcoming games will move to Vanderbilt's renovated FirstBank Stadium, ready to accommodate a larger crowd and offer a new atmosphere for fans. This transition reflects the championship's growth, enhancing the experience for fans and athletes alike.

Conclusion

As we gear up for kickoff, there's a sense of excitement in the air. The FCS Championship not only encapsulates a battle for the title but also serves as a powerful reminder of the journeys each team has taken. Will North Dakota State continue their dominance, or will Montana State finally capture that elusive second title? One thing is for sure: the stage is set for an electrifying game.

Keywords: fcs championship, north dakota state bison football