Montana’s Perfect Season on the Line in Brawl of the Wild Showdown

The undefeated Montana Grizzlies face their toughest test this Saturday. They host archrival Montana State in the 124th Brawl of the Wild. The game kicks off on November 22 at Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula.

This matchup is a de facto championship game. The winner claims the Big Sky Conference title and an automatic bid to the FCS playoffs. Both teams are nationally ranked and bring long win streaks into the historic rivalry.

Historic Rivalry and High Stakes Collide

Montana leads the all-time series 74-43-5. The Grizzlies have been particularly dominant at home. They have won 32 of the 51 meetings played in Missoula.

Recent history adds another layer. Montana State won last year’s contest in Bozeman by a score of 34-11. That victory propelled the Bobcats to an undefeated regular season.

This year, the roles are somewhat reversed. Montana enters the game with a perfect 11-0 record. According to Associated Press reports, they are one of only four teams in the program’s 130-year history to start 11-0.

Examining Montana’s Dominant Run

The Grizzlies’ success is built on balance. Their offense averages over 38 points per game. Quarterback Keali’i Ah Yat has been a dynamic leader.

The defense has been equally impressive. It forces critical turnovers and stifles opponents’ scoring drives. Last week’s 63-17 rout of Portland State showcased their complete dominance.

Head coach Bobby Hauck has his team playing championship-caliber football. They have handled every challenge presented this season. Their perfect record is no accident.

Montana State’s Formidable Challenge

The Bobcats are not to be underestimated. They bring a nine-game winning streak of their own into Saturday’s clash. Their defense is known for being stout and disciplined.

Stopping Montana’s high-powered offense is their primary task. They must pressure the quarterback and limit big plays. Their recent experience beating Montana gives them a psychological edge.

Despite being the lower-ranked team, oddsmakers see this as a tight contest. Montana is currently a slight 2.5-point home underdog. This reflects respect for Montana State’s resilience and talent.

The Playoff Implications Are Clear

The outcome directly shapes the FCS postseason. The winner will almost certainly secure the No. 2 overall seed. This guarantees home-field advantage through the playoff bracket.

The loser faces a more difficult path. They would likely receive a lower seed and could have to play road games. The selection committee announces the full playoff field on November 23.

The 124th Brawl of the Wild is more than a rivalry game. It is a season-defining battle for the Big Sky crown and national playoff positioning. Montana’s perfect season hangs in the balance against a fierce and familiar foe.

Info at your fingertips

What is the Brawl of the Wild?

The Brawl of the Wild is the annual football rivalry game between the University of Montana and Montana State University. It is one of the oldest and most heated rivalries in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

Why is this year’s game so important?

Both teams are highly ranked and playing for the Big Sky Conference championship. The winner gets an automatic bid to the FCS playoffs and a likely top-two seed, which means home-field advantage.

Who is the key player for Montana?

Quarterback Keali’i Ah Yat is central to Montana’s explosive offense. His ability to make plays through the air and on the ground has been a major factor in their undefeated season.

How can I watch the game?

The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN+. Local radio broadcasts will also be available throughout Montana and on various streaming platforms.

What happens if Montana loses?

A loss would end Montana’s perfect season but not eliminate them from the playoffs. They would receive an at-large bid but would likely be seeded lower, potentially having to play on the road.

What happens if Montana State loses?

Montana State would also receive an at-large playoff bid with a loss. Their seed would be impacted, and they would likely face a tougher road to the FCS championship game.