Montana State and Illinois State are set to clash in the FCS National Championship game following impressive seasons. Both teams have showcased their skills and resilience throughout the 2025 season, culminating in this championship showdown.
Montana State’s Journey to the Championship
Montana State finished the regular season with an impressive record of 10-2. The Bobcats suffered early losses against Oregon and South Dakota State but rebounded by winning ten straight games. A thrilling 31-28 victory over their rival, Montana, secured them the No. 2 seed in the FCS playoffs.
FCS Playoffs Performance
- Defeated Yale 21-13 in the second round.
- Emerged victorious against Stephen F. Austin in the quarterfinals, winning 44-28.
- Defeated Montana again in the semifinals, 48-23, marking back-to-back wins against their rival.
This championship appearance marks the third for head coach Brent Vigen and the second consecutive title game for Montana State.
Key Players for Montana State
- QB Justin Lamson
- RB Julius Davis
- RB Adam Jones
- WR Taco Dowler
- OL Titan Fleischman and Braden Zimmer
- Defense: S Caden Dowler, DL Paul Brott, and LB Cole Taylor
Lamson, a transfer from the FBS, has been instrumental for Montana State, aided by standout players like Davis and Jones in the backfield.
Illinois State’s Path to Glory
Illinois State had a mixed regular-season performance, finishing with a 10-4 record. Initially ranked No. 6, their season included a challenging ending, impacting their playoff seeding.
FCS Playoffs Performance
- Won against Southeastern Louisiana in the first round.
- Upended top-seeded North Dakota State in the second round, 29-28.
- Claimed victory over UC Davis in the quarterfinals and topped Villanova, clinching a spot in the title game.
This marks Illinois State’s first title game appearance since 2014.
Key Players for Illinois State
- QB Tommy Rittenhouse
- WR Daniel Sobkowicz
- WR Luke Mailander
- RB Victor Dawson
- Defense: LB Tye Niekamp and CB Shadwel Nkuba II
Sobkowicz has shone during the playoffs with seven receiving touchdowns. Rittenhouse’s leadership as a senior quarterback has been crucial for the Redbirds throughout their playoff run.
Conclusion
The upcoming matchup between Montana State and Illinois State promises to be an exciting clash of two high-performing teams. Fans can anticipate a fierce competition as both squads aim to capture the coveted FCS National Championship title.
