As the FCS national championship game approaches, a spotlight shines on the rosters of Montana State and Illinois State. Both teams, ranked high in the playoff series, have constructed formidable lineups, blending local talent and effective utilization of the transfer portal. Kickoff is set for January 5, with fans eager to see which team will emerge as the national champion.
In-State Recruiting: A Winning Strategy
One of the most significant aspects of both teams’ success is their emphasis on in-state recruiting. Montana State boasts more than 40 players from Montana, highlighting their ability to cultivate local talent. Key contributors include:
- Caden Dowler: Safety and the 2025 Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year.
- Taco Dowler: Wide receiver and multi-time FCS All-American.
- Paul Brott: Defensive leader from Billings.
- Kenneth Eiden IV: A standout from Bozeman.
- Adam Jones: Running back and Freshman All-American with over 1,000 rushing yards this season.
Illinois State employs a similar approach, with over 50 players from within the state, including:
- Tye Niekamp: All-American linebacker with 341 total tackles.
- Daniel Sobkowicz: Record-setting wide receiver looking to cement his legacy.
Building Through High School Development
Both programs have demonstrated a strong commitment to developing players acquired from high schools. Montana State has incorporated several underclassmen into their lineup, reflecting their focus on youth and development. This includes a talented secondary with Freshman All-American Carson Williams and others stepping up significantly.
In contrast, Illinois State has leaned on a more experienced roster, with nearly 20 seniors contributing significantly. This blend of youth and experience positions both teams favorably for success in high-pressure situations.
The Role of the Transfer Portal
While in-state recruiting is central to their strategies, both teams also leverage the transfer portal effectively. Montana State has integrated a modest total of 12 transfers, highlighting their preference for homegrown talent. Significant transfer contributions include:
- Justin Lamson: Quarterback leading the team after taking over from a program legend.
- Julius Davis: Running back with 1,100 rushing yards this season.
- Alec Eckert: Key offensive line starter.
Illinois State, on the other hand, has eight starters who have transferred, with key players such as:
- Victor Dawson: Leading rusher with 1,251 yards.
- Jake Pope: Offensive tackle with nearly 40 career starts.
Evaluating Contributors by Class
Analyzing the breakdown of significant contributors reveals insightful trends. Significant contributors are defined as players who have participated in at least 200 snaps this season. The breakdown is as follows:
| Class | Montana State | Illinois State |
|---|---|---|
| Freshman | 9 | 5 |
| Sophomore | 13 | 6 |
| Junior | 9 | 7 |
| Senior | 8 | 16 |
This data underscores Montana State’s commitment to youth and development, while Illinois State showcases its experience. Both styles offer lessons on how to build a championship-level roster.
Recruiting Trends and Future Outlook
Montana State’s approach extends beyond state lines, with players from talent-rich areas such as Texas and California contributing to their success. Illinois State also excels in acquiring talent from nearby states like Indiana and Wisconsin.
As January 5 approaches, both teams have showcased effective roster building, centered on in-state recruiting, high school development, and strategic use of the transfer portal. The upcoming championship game will reveal which team’s strategy pays off and earns the coveted FCS national championship title.
