NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Montana State University etched its name into college football history on Monday night, capturing the 2026 FCS National Championship with a dramatic 35–34 overtime victory over Illinois State at FirstBank Stadium. The win marks the Bobcats’ first national title since 1984 and the first overtime decision in FCS Championship Game history.
Montana State capped a resilient championship run by executing a decisive overtime drive after Illinois State struck first in the extra period. The Bobcats answered with poise and physicality, finishing the game on their own terms to secure the program’s long-awaited return to the top of the FCS landscape.
Game Summary
Montana State built an early advantage behind a balanced offensive attack before Illinois State surged late, forcing overtime with a fourth-quarter rally. Neither team blinked in the closing moments, but the Bobcats delivered the final score in overtime to seal the one-point victory.
Final Score:
Montana State 35, Illinois State 34 (OT)
Key Performances – Montana State
- QB Justin Lamson led the offense with efficiency and composure, managing the game effectively and delivering clutch plays when it mattered most, including the overtime possession.
- WR Taco Dowler finished with 133 total yards, two TDs and what proved to be the game-winner.
- Offensive Line anchored the championship effort, winning key short-yardage battles and protecting Lamson against an aggressive Redbird defense.
Key Performances – Illinois State
- QB Tommy Rittenhouse authored a championship-caliber performance, throwing with confidence and leading multiple scoring drives to keep Illinois State within striking distance throughout the contest.
- WR Daniel Sobkowicz emerged as the Redbirds’ primary playmaker, consistently creating separation and converting contested catches in crucial moments.
- Defense delivered multiple momentum-shifting stops in the second half, helping fuel Illinois State’s late comeback.
Player Grades – Championship Snapshot
Montana State
- Justin Lamson (QB): A+
- Taco Dowler (WR): A+
- Offensive Line: A-
- Defense: B+
- Special Teams: B
Illinois State
- Tommy Rittenhouse (QB): A
- Daniel Sobkowicz (WR): A-
- Running Backs: B+
- Defense: B+
- Special Teams: B-
Championship Impact
The victory concludes a championship season for Montana State defined by toughness, balance, and execution under pressure. The Bobcats finished the year as national champions, ending a 41-year title drought and delivering a landmark moment for the program and the Big Sky Conference.
Illinois State, meanwhile, completed one of the most impressive postseason runs in program history. Despite falling just one point short, the Redbirds’ performance solidified their place among the elite teams in the FCS.
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