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Brawl of the Wild: Montana vs. MSU in FCS Semis
21 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Montana and Montana State rivalry extends to FCS playoffs.
- The game determines a trip to the national championship.
- Both teams feature conference Players of the Year.
Montana and Montana State are set to clash in a historic "Brawl of the Wild" matchup, marking the first time their storied rivalry will take place in the FCS playoffs. This highly anticipated semifinal game, scheduled for Saturday, will determine which team secures a spot in the national championship game.
The stakes are immense as the Bobcats, who were the national runner-up last year, look to make back-to-back title game appearances. The Grizzlies, meanwhile, are striving to reach the championship game for the first time since 2023. The intensity of this rivalry is further amplified by the presence of each conference's top offensive and defensive players.
Montana boasts the Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year, running back Eli Gillman, while Montana State features the Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year, defensive back Caden Dowler. This deeply rooted rivalry, dating back to 1897, typically decides the Big Sky Conference title and is played for The Great Divide Trophy.
