Montana State Bobcats Win Historic FCS National Championship in Overtime Thriller

The Montana State Bobcats completed one of the most unforgettable seasons in program history by winning the 2025 FCS National Championship. In a dramatic overtime battle, Montana State defeated the Illinois State Redbirds 35–34 on Monday night at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee.

This championship is especially meaningful for the Bobcats, as it marks their first national title in 41 years. The victory connects the present team with Montana State’s rich football history and cements the 2025 Bobcats as legends in Bozeman.

A Championship 41 Years in the Making

The number 41 carried deep meaning for Montana State throughout the season. Linebacker Neil Daily recently watched a documentary about the 1941 MSU football team, a group remembered not only for their success but also for the players who later lost their lives during World War II. That legacy inspired the famous No. 41 jerseys worn by the Bobcats.

On Monday night, with several players wearing that number, Montana State finally ended a 41-year championship drought in the most dramatic way possible.

Strong Start Sets the Tone

Montana State, the No. 2 seed in the tournament, wasted no time taking control of the game. After forcing Illinois State to punt early, junior quarterback Justin Lamson led a 90-yard drive that ended with a 3-yard rushing touchdown. The Bobcats took a 7–0 lead and never lost confidence.

Lamson struck again early in the second quarter with another rushing touchdown, making it 14–0. Illinois State responded with a late score before halftime, but Montana State answered immediately. Lamson threw a perfect 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Dane Steel, who broke multiple tackles and hurdled a defender on his way to the end zone.

At halftime, Montana State held a commanding lead and full control of the momentum.

Offensive Firepower and Team Confidence

Lamson delivered one of the best halves in championship history, completing 12 of 13 passes for 228 yards before halftime. Wide receiver Taco Dowler was a key target, showing confidence, speed, and strong hands.

Dowler credited his success to the offense and his quarterback.

“It’s easy to play receiver when Justin’s your quarterback and putting the ball right on your chest,” Dowler said. “It’s easy when you trust your teammates.”

Despite adversity, including the injury and early exit of All-American safety Caden Dowler, the Bobcats stayed focused and disciplined.

Illinois State Fights Back

Montana State extended its lead to 28-14 with a 22 yard touchdown run by Taco Dowler. But Illinois State refused to go away.

The Redbirds scored early in the fourth quarter to make it 28–21, then tied the game after forcing multiple punts. With the score at 28–28 and less than a minute remaining, Illinois State attempted a field goal that could have won the game.

That’s when Montana State’s special teams delivered another unforgettable moment.

Special Teams Save the Season

With just over one minute left, Jhase McMillan blocked the field goal, sending the game to overtime. It was the first overtime game in the 47-year history of the FCS National Championship, adding even more drama to the night.

Illinois State scored first in overtime, but once again, Montana State made a huge play. Defensive end Hunter Parsons blocked the extra point, keeping the Bobcats alive.

One Final Play for the Title

Facing fourth and 10 on their final possession, Montana State needed a miracle. Under heavy pressure, Lamson lofted a pass toward the end zone. Taco Dowler came down with the ball for a 14-yard touchdown catch.

Kicker Myles Sansted calmly added the extra point, sealing the 35–34 victory and sending the Bobcats onto the field in celebration.

Justin Lamson Named Championship MVP

Justin Lamson was named the Most Outstanding Player of the FCS Championship game. The Stanford transfer finished with:

• 280 passing yards
• 2 passing touchdowns
• 2 rushing touchdowns
• 0 turnovers

His leadership, composure, and toughness defined Montana State’s championship run.

A Historic Win for Montana State and the Big Sky

This victory gave Montana State its fourth national championship overall and second at the FCS level, joining the legendary 1984 team. The Bobcats also became the first Big Sky Conference team to win a national title since Eastern Washington in 2010.

More importantly, the win united generations of Bobcat fans and honored the program’s past while celebrating its future.

After 41 years of waiting, Montana State is finally back on top.