North Dakota State University (NDSU) claimed its tenth championship title in FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) history with a thrilling 35-32 victory over Montana State on January 6, 2025. The game was held at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, and witnessed a fierce battle between two talented teams, ultimately ending Montana State’s hopes of an undefeated season.
The game began with North Dakota State taking a strong lead, highlighted by quarterback Cam Miller’s impressive 64-yard touchdown run. The Bison set the tone early, dominating possession in the first quarter with two long touchdown drives that kept Montana State’s offense off the field. By halftime, NDSU held a commanding 21-3 lead.
Montana State, known for its explosive offense, showcased its determination in the second half. Quarterback Tommy Mellott, who had previously earned the Walter Payton Award as the best player in the FCS, cut NDSU’s lead to just three points with a 44-yard sprint into the end zone. The Bobcats had momentum and appeared poised for a comeback.
However, North Dakota State responded decisively. After exchanging punts following Mellott’s touchdown, the Bison engineered a crucial nine-play drive that ended with a 3-yard touchdown run by CharMar Brown. This increased NDSU’s lead back to ten points, putting pressure on Montana State with just minutes left in the game.
Montana State’s offense, resilient as ever, managed to score again with a critical fourth-down touchdown pass from Mellott to Taco Dowler, narrowing the Bison’s lead to just three points with only 1:09 remaining. In a desperate attempt to regain possession, Montana State executed an onside kick, but the Bison recovered, sealing their victory as time dwindled down.
Cam Miller’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as he contributed heavily to the Bison’s offense. He completed 19 of 22 passes for 199 yards and also rushed for 121 yards, totaling four touchdowns — two in the air and two on the ground. His accuracy and playmaking ability were critical in leading the Bison to the title.
Montana State, despite the loss, had an impressive season, finishing undefeated prior to the championship game. The Bobcats had defeated all three of their playoff opponents by significant margins, and Mellott’s leadership put them in a position to claim their first national title since 1984. In this championship game, he also showcased his skills by rushing for 135 yards, adding to a season where he crossed the 1,000-yard mark alongside running backs Scottre Humphrey and Adam Jones.
The win for NDSU not only adds to its storied history but also marks the successful debut season for head coach Tim Polasek. He stepped into the role following Matt Entz’s departure and has now joined the ranks of coaches who have led the Bison to championship glory, including Chris Klieman and Craig Bohl. Polasek’s ability to step up in pressure situations speaks volumes about his leadership capabilities.
As the final whistle blew, the Bison celebrated their victory on the field, further solidifying their legacy as one of the most formidable teams in FCS history. With this win, NDSU boasts an impressive record of 10-1 in FCS title games, a testament to their consistent excellence over the years.
For Montana State, the defeat was a heartbreaking end to a remarkable season. The team showed great promise and skill throughout the year but fell short at a critical moment. Despite the setback, the Bobcats can take pride in their achievements and the foundation they have built for future seasons.
In conclusion, the 2025 FCS Championship showcased not only exceptional football talent from both teams but also the spirit of competition and perseverance. As NDSU adds another trophy to its cabinet, both teams leave the field with valuable experiences that will shape their paths in college football for years to come.
