Montana vs Montana State: Grizzlies’ Brawl Rematch Takes Center Stage in National Semifinals
When discussing fierce college football rivalries in the West, the phrase Montana vs Montana State inevitably comes to mind. However, this weekend’s spotlight isn’t on the storied in-state feud but on an even higher-stakes clash: the Montana Grizzlies’ national semifinal playoff rematch against defending champion South Dakota State. The showdown—set for Saturday in Brookings—reignites tensions from a September brawl that resulted in suspensions, fines, and indelible bad blood. The Montana vs Montana State dynamic may define regional bragging rights, but this semifinal could cement the Grizzlies’ place in championship history.
The Backstory: A Brawl for the Ages
When Montana hosted South Dakota State in Week 3, a 35–7 Jackrabbits blowout was overshadowed by a bench-clearing brawl late in the fourth quarter. The skirmish, sparked by a hard hit on SDSU quarterback Mark Gronowski, led to fines and suspensions for both teams, including Montana’s starting linebacker Braxton Hill and SDSU’s star tight end Zach Heins. The incident left tempers smoldering—a subplot certain to resurface in Saturday’s rematch.
Grizzlies’ Path to the Semifinals
Montana (13-1) has been unstoppable since that September loss, rattling off 11 consecutive wins. The Grizzlies bulldozed Delaware 49-19 in the quarterfinals behind quarterback Clifton McDowell’s electric dual-threat performance (183 passing yards, 80 rushing yards) and a defense that forced three turnovers. Coach Bobby Hauck emphasized resilience: “We’ve grown tougher every week, facing adversity head-on.”
Jackrabbits: An Unbeaten Juggernaut
South Dakota State (13-0) boasts the nation’s top-ranked offense (45.5 PPG) and defense (9.8 PPG allowed), led by Gronowski (2,883 passing yards, 28 TDs) and All-American runner Isaiah Davis (1,423 yards). The Jackrabbits dismantled Villanova 23–12 last week, extending their FCS-leading win streak to 27 games. Still, questions linger about how they’ll handle a rematch infused with hostility.
Montana vs Montana State Energy Fuels Griz
While not facing their in-state rivals this week, the Grizzlies have drawn parallels between the intensity of Montana vs Montana State showdowns and this semifinal’s emotional stakes. “Our guys know what rivalry football feels like,” Hauck said. “SDSU’s physicality mirrors what we see from Montana State.” Linebacker Levi Janacaro added, “We’re channeling that same edge.”
Key Matchups to Watch
- Gronowski vs Montana’s Secondary: Gronowski lit up Montana for 269 yards and 3 TDs in September. With All-Big Sky safeties Trevin Gradney and Ryder Meyer anchoring the backfield, the Grizzlies must limit deep shots.
- Trench Warfare: SDSU’s offensive line—a finalist for the Joe Moore Award—faces Montana’s ferocious pass rush, led by Alex Gubner (6.5 sacks).
- McDowell’s Mobility: The elusive QB’s ability to extend plays could exploit SDSU’s disciplined defense.
Betting Lines & Expert Predictions
SDSU enters as a 13.5-point favorite, with ESPN Analytics giving the Jackrabbits an 83% win probability. However, Montana’s gritty playoff run—including wins over No. 4 Idaho and No. 7 Delaware—has shifted some sentiment. Said FCS analyst Sam Herder: “If Montana stifles Davis early and McDowell dominates on the ground, this becomes a toss-up.”
The Montana vs Montana State Factor in Playoff Lore
Montana’s last semifinal victory came in 2009—a 35–27 thriller against Appalachian State—before falling to Villanova in the title game. For Hauck, a win would mark his first championship-game appearance since 2008 and reignite passions typically reserved for Montana vs Montana State duels.
How to Watch
Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. MT on ESPN2 from Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium. Temperatures are expected near freezing, adding a layer of brutality to an already physical contest.
Final Thoughts
Saturday’s semifinal transcends a mere playoff game—it’s a grudge match loaded with pride, vengeance, and a quest for legitimacy. Though Montana vs Montana State remains the standard for Frontier fire, Montana’s clash with SDSU will write a new chapter in FCS lore. Expect big hits, emotional fireworks, and a battle that could redefine both programs.
