Montana State Bobcats Honored for 2025 FCS Championship Win

Alright, let's talk about something that's probably not going to change your grocery bill or your commute, but definitely brings some good vibes: a new resolution celebrating the Montana State University (MSU) Bobcats football team.

This isn't a bill that's going to create new laws or regulations. Instead, it's a formal pat on the back from the state, specifically congratulating the MSU Bobcats for snagging the 2025 NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) national title. They beat the Illinois State University Redbirds 35 to 34 in overtime on January 5, 2026. Think of it as the state officially saying, "Well done!" to a team that brought home some serious hardware.

The Road to Victory Lane

The resolution highlights the Bobcats' impressive run, noting this was their first FCS Championship since 1984 and the fourth national football championship in the school's history. They also clinched the 2025 Big Sky Conference Championship and wrapped up the season with a 14-game winning streak, which included knocking off seven ranked opponents. For anyone who follows college sports, that's a pretty big deal. They even beat their archrival, the University of Montana Grizzlies, twice in one season—once in the regular season and again in a historic playoff game. That's bragging rights for a while.

Shout-Outs and Standouts

Beyond the team's overall success, the resolution makes sure to give props where they're due. Head coach Brent Vigen gets a nod for leading the team to its second consecutive national championship appearance in his five years at the helm. University leaders like President Dr. Brock Tessman and Athletic Director Leon Costello are also recognized for fostering both athletic and academic excellence. For the players, five Bobcats earned FCS Football Central All-American honors: offensive lineman Titan Fleischmann, safety Caden Dowler, defensive lineman Kenneth Eiden IV, running back Julius Davis, and defensive lineman Paul Brott. These are the folks who put in the work on the field, and it’s good to see them called out.

Game-Winning Moments

The resolution doesn't just stop at general praise; it dives into the nitty-gritty of the championship game itself. Quarterback Justin Lamson is highlighted as the Most Outstanding Player, rushing for two touchdowns and throwing for 280 yards and two more, including the game-tying pass in overtime. Taco Dowler caught eight passes for 111 yards and that crucial game-tying touchdown. And let's not forget the special teams, who blocked a field goal and an extra point, setting up kicker Myles Sansted for the game-winning extra point in overtime. These are the kinds of clutch plays that make for legendary moments, and the resolution makes sure to capture them.

Broader Bobcat Pride

It’s not just about the players on the field. The resolution also points out that 44 players on the roster are from Montana, embodying the state's values—a nice touch for local pride. It extends recognition to the Spirit of the West Marching Band, cheerleaders, and the thousands of faculty, students, alumni, and fans who traveled all the way to Nashville, Tennessee, to support the team. This really shows the wider community effort behind such a victory. Finally, the resolution formally requests that an official copy be prepared and presented to the University President, Athletic Director, and Head Coach. So, while it won't change your daily grind, it's a solid piece of recognition for a job well done.