FCS National Championship Preview: Montana State and North Dakota State Battle for Glory
As the FCS National Championship approaches, the excitement in Frisco, Texas, is palpable. The media day, featuring FCS committee chair Matt Larsen, vice chair Mark Wharton, and NCAA Director of Championships Ty Halpin, set the stage for a thrilling matchup between Montana State and North Dakota State. Discussions centered on the evolving playoff bracket, potential future championship sites, and even the Ivy League’s participation in postseason play.
On the field, two powerhouse programs prepare to clash. Montana State head coach Brent Vigen reflected on his team’s journey since their 2021 championship loss to the Bison, emphasizing the growth and determination of his squad. “We’ve come a long way since then,” Vigen said. “This group has worked relentlessly to put ourselves back in this position.”
Similarly, North Dakota State head coach Tim Polasek expressed pride in the progress of the FCS Championship as a premier event. “It feels much more like a bowl game now,” Polasek remarked, acknowledging the high standards set by the city of Frisco and the event organizers.
Montana State: A New Era of Dominance?
For Montana State (15-0), this season has been a testament to resilience and excellence. Quarterback Tommy Mellott, nicknamed "Touchdown Tommy," has been the linchpin of the Bobcats’ offense, combining a league-leading passing efficiency with unmatched rushing ability. Flanked by rising stars Scottre Humphrey and Adam Jones, Montana State boasts one of the most potent backfields in college football, averaging over 300 rushing yards per game.
Their offensive line, praised for its strength and precision, allowed minimal pressure on Mellott, enabling the team to dominate in both the running and passing games. Meanwhile, the defense, led by standout lineman Brody Grebe, has proven nearly impenetrable, allowing only a handful of teams to score more than 17 points all season.
The Bobcats excel in finishing drives, converting an astounding 82.6% of red-zone trips into touchdowns. Their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities has been a defining factor in their success, making them a formidable opponent for the Bison.
North Dakota State: A Legacy to Defend
North Dakota State (13-2) enters the championship with a storied legacy, having won nine titles in 13 years. This season, quarterback Cam Miller has been the driving force, delivering 31 touchdowns through the air and adding another 10 on the ground. Supported by a balanced rushing attack led by freshman CharMar Brown and junior Barika Kpeenu, the Bison have maintained their reputation as a powerhouse.
However, the Bison’s defense has shown some vulnerability against strong rushing teams, a potential concern when facing Montana State’s high-octane ground game. Despite this, the team’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations—evident in their semifinal victory over South Dakota State—makes them a dangerous contender.
Key Matchups and Predictions
This championship clash is a study in contrasts. Montana State’s RPO-heavy offense thrives on explosive plays and efficient drives, while North Dakota State leans on a more traditional approach with creative use of spread formations. The quarterback duel between Mellott and Miller adds another layer of intrigue, as both are capable of game-changing plays.
Red-zone efficiency could be the deciding factor. Montana State’s near-perfect scoring rate in the red zone will test NDSU’s defensive resilience. On third downs, the Bobcats hold a slight edge, converting over 55% of attempts compared to the Bison’s 53.7%.
Given Montana State’s depth, balance, and ability to control the game, they enter the matchup as 3.5-point favorites. If the Bobcats can maintain their dominance in key situations, they’re poised to claim their first championship since 1984.
Final Take:
The FCS National Championship promises to deliver high-stakes football at its finest. With legacies on the line and contrasting styles in play, this showdown between Montana State and North Dakota State is a must-watch for college football fans.
