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| Image Source :: Kyle Hansen / MTN Sports |
It finally happened. After decades of near-misses and heartbreaks, the FCS Championship Game delivered one of the most exciting finishes in college football history. On January 5, 2026, the Montana State Bobcats football team pulled off a breathtaking overtime win over the Illinois State Redbirds — a 35–34 finish at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. NCAA.com+1
This wasn’t just another game. It was a story of perseverance, strategy, heart, and unforgettable plays. In this article, we’ll break down the road to the championship, highlight key performances, analyze the dramatic ending, and explore what this historic victory means for everyone involved — from MSU Bobcats and ISU Redbirds fans to followers of NCAA FCS football everywhere.
A Long Road to a Moment Like This
What Is the FCS Championship Game?
The FCS Championship Game is the final contest in the Football Championship Subdivision’s 24-team playoff bracket — a bracket that begins after the regular season. Unlike the higher-profile FBS playoffs, the FCS playoffs offer a deeper postseason run where every matchup must be earned. Wikipedia
This championship has a reputation for competitiveness and drama, but the 2026 iteration may be the most memorable yet.
Montana State Football: A Program Reborn
For the Montana State Bobcats football program, the journey has been one of steady ascent. Under head coach Brent Vigen, the Bobcats made several deep runs in the playoffs before finally breaking through. Over the last five seasons, they reached the FCS title game multiple times but always came up short — until now. Wikipedia
The Bobcats came into the 2025 season with questions, despite notable veteran leadership and an experienced roster. They posted a strong 14–2 record, showcasing a balanced offense and a defense that could rise to the occasion.
Illinois State: The Redbirds’ Historic Run
Not to be overlooked was Illinois State University football, which wrote its own chapter in FCS history. Under coach Brock Spack, the ISU Redbirds football team ripped through the playoff bracket as an unseeded squad — winning a remarkable four road games to reach the title game. Wikipedia
Quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse emerged as one of the key players of the postseason, piling up huge yardage and keeping the Redbirds competitive in every game. His performance in the championship was no exception, even as the Bobcats ultimately prevailed.
FirstBank Stadium: Perfect Stage for a Classic
FirstBank Stadium, located on the campus of Vanderbilt University in Nashville, hosted the FCS title game before a lively crowd of more than 24,000 fans. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
The atmosphere was electric — a mix of anticipation and tension from kickoff to overtime. It was a fitting site for what would become a historic showdown.
Game Breakdown: Regulation to Overtime
Early Action: Bobcats Strike First
Montana State jumped out early and never truly lost control of the game. Quarterback Justin Lamson, who transferred to Montana State and became the central figure of the Bobcats’ offense, had a phenomenal performance, particularly in the first half. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
Lamson’s early prowess through the air helped establish momentum, and by halftime, MSU had built a comfortable lead. Wide receiver Taco Dowler was a key target all night, helping to stretch the defense and finish drives.
Illinois State Fights Back
Illinois State responded with grit. Rittenhouse showed remarkable poise as he marched the Redbirds back into the game. Illinois State’s offense began to find rhythm in the second half, cutting into the Bobcats’ lead and forcing critical plays down the stretch. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
By late in the fourth quarter, momentum was shifting. After tying the game at 28–28, the Redbirds looked poised to pull off a stunning upset.
The Blocked Field Goal That Changed Everything
With the clock winding down and Illinois State in field goal range, it appeared that the Redbirds might win it in regulation — until Montana State’s defense made a play for the ages. A field goal attempt was blocked, giving the Bobcats a lifeline and sending the game into overtime. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
That special teams play became a pivotal turning point. It demonstrated that, in a game this tight, every phase of the matchup mattered.
Overtime: Drama at Its Peak
This championship game marked the first overtime in FCS title game history — and what a way to break the mold. Wikipedia
In overtime, Illinois State took the lead first with a touchdown pass from Rittenhouse to Dylan Lord — and for a moment, it seemed the extra point might secure the Redbirds their first national crown. But Montana State’s defense struck again, blocking that crucial kick.
That set the stage for Lamson and Dowler — and with the Bobcats facing fourth-and-10, Lamson lofted a high-arching pass into the end zone for Dowler to haul in. The touchdown tied the game at 34–34. A successful point after by Myles Sansted ultimately sealed the Bobcats’ first national title in 41 years. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
Heroes of the Night
Justin Lamson
Lamson was the centerpiece of the Bobcats’ attack. He threw for over 280 yards and two touchdowns while adding two rushing scores — a complete performance that earned him accolades and a permanent place in MSU history. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
Taco Dowler
Dowler’s impact cannot be overstated. With over 130 receiving yards and two touchdowns, including the crucial overtime score, he became a legend in Bozeman. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
Tommy Rittenhouse
Though on the losing side, Rittenhouse’s performance for Illinois State football was historic. Over 300 passing yards and four touchdowns demonstrated leadership and resilience throughout the night. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
What This Title Means for Montana State
For the Bobcats, this championship is more than a trophy — it’s validation.
Montana State University hasn’t seen a national title since 1984, and all of the narrow playoff exits in recent years made this victory even sweeter. This win will resonate with fans and alumni for years. NCAA.com
Head coach Brent Vigen has now cemented his legacy — leading his program into the upper reaches of FCS football.
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of the 2026 FCS National Championship
This FCS national championship game will be remembered for its balance of offense, defense, and sheer drama. Modern fans will talk about the blocked kicks, clutch throws, and strategic adjustments that defined every quarter.
For Montana State, the win sets the tone for future seasons — recruiting momentum, national attention, and a deep playoff culture.
For Illinois State, it’s a building block. The Redbirds proved they belong on this stage, and their road to the title game — including four road wins — is among the most impressive in recent history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the FCS championship game?
The FCS Championship Game is the final matchup in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision postseason. It determines the national champion for the FCS, with teams competing in a 24-team playoff bracket. Wikipedia
Who won the FCS national championship in 2026?
The Montana State Bobcats won the 2026 FCS national championship, defeating Illinois State 35–34 in overtime. NCAA.com
When was the last time Montana State won the FCS title before 2026?
Montana State last won a national title in 1984 — 41 years before their 2026 victory. NCAA.com
Where was the Montana State vs Illinois State championship game played?
The game took place at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
Who were the standout players in the 2026 FCS Championship Game?
Key players included Montana State’s Justin Lamson and Taco Dowler, along with Illinois State’s Tommy Rittenhouse. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
What made this FCS championship game special?
It was the first FCS title game to go into overtime and featured dramatic blocked kicks and clutch plays that shaped the final outcome. Wikipedia
References
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ESPN: Montana State tops Illinois State in wild FCS title game – ESPN India. ESPN
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MontanaSports.com: Cat coronation: Montana State survives OT thriller to win first championship since 1984. MontanaSports.com (MTSPX)
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NCAA.com: Montana State wins the 2025-26 FCS football National Championship in overtime thriller. NCAA.com
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Wikipedia: 2026 NCAA Division I Football Championship Game. Wikipedia
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