Montana State University captured its second FCS National Championship on Monday, January 5, 2025, with a dramatic overtime victory over the Illinois State Redbirds at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. The Bobcats capped off a historic season by returning to the FCS Championship game for the second straight year. Only this time, they emerged on top with a thrilling 35–34 win.
The team was led by quarterback Justin Lamson, standout wide receivers Taco Dowler and Dane Steel, and kicker Myles Sansted. However, Montana State relied on a full-team effort to secure its first national title since 1984. Illinois State, despite a remarkable postseason run, remains in search of its first FCS championship.
Championship Game
Montana State dominated the first half with an explosive offensive performance. Lamson completed 12 of 13 passes for 228 yards, showcasing his composure. The 23-year-old Stanford transfer accounted for three touchdowns before halftime.
He rushed for two scores and threw the third to wide receiver Steel for a 33-yard catch-and-run TD. Steel’s touchdown highlighted the half, as he hurdled a defender and stumbled into the end zone. The Bobcats entered the third quarter with a 14-point lead and appeared totally in control.
The momentum shifted quickly in the second half as Illinois State responded. After forcing a stop on Montana State’s opening possession, the Redbirds drove deep into the red zone. Running back Victor Dawson fumbled near the goal line, but offensive lineman Logan Brasfield recovered the ball in the end zone for a touchdown. The score ignited Illinois State’s comeback, as the Redbirds steadily chipped away at the Bobcats’ lead.
The game reached peak intensity late in the fourth quarter. With just 5:10 remaining, Illinois State quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse connected with Wide Receiver Dylan Lord on a 25-yard touchdown pass to tie the game. After a forced punt, the Redbirds regained possession with just over three minutes left and moved into field goal range following another Rittenhouse-to-Lord completion.
Illinois State struck first in overtime, as Rittenhouse once again found Lord for a touchdown. However, Montana State blocked the extra point, keeping Illinois down by six. On the Bobcats’ possession, Lamson delivered under pressure again, finding Dowler on fourth-and-10 for a 14-yard touchdown. Sansted then converted the extra point to secure the championship.
Historic Seasons
The title ended a memorable season for Montana State, which also featured a historic semifinal matchup against in-state rival the University of Montana. It was the first time the teams met twice in a single season. Montana, meanwhile, was coming off a loss in last year’s FCS Championship, making this rematch even more significant. The Bobcats’ semifinal victory over their longtime rivals excited their fan base and boosted the team’s confidence heading into the championship.
Illinois State’s run was equally impressive, as the Redbirds became the first team to earn four playoff wins on the road in one FCS postseason. They are also only the second unseeded team to reach the championship game in the 24-team playoff era. Their journey included tough, hard-fought wins against top-ranked opponents, showcasing resilience, teamwork, and determination throughout the season.
Montana State Secures FCS Championship in Overtime Thriller