The Montana State Bobcats are headed back to the biggest stage in FCS football. After an electrifying playoff run, Montana State will face the Illinois State Redbirds in the NCAA Division I FCS National Championship, with the title game set for Monday, January 5 in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s a moment years in the making — and Bobcat Nation is ready.
This championship appearance marks another milestone for a program that has consistently proven it belongs among the elite. From packed stadiums in Bozeman to watch parties across the state, Montana is rallying behind its team as the Bobcats chase a national title under the bright lights of Music City.
A New Championship Setting — Nashville Takes the Stage
This year’s national championship brings a change of scenery. Instead of Frisco, Texas, the FCS title game will be played at FirstBank Stadium, located on the campus of Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
Known for its electric atmosphere, live music, and southern hospitality, Nashville offers a unique backdrop for college football’s biggest FCS matchup. For Bobcat fans making the trip, the city provides no shortage of restaurants, entertainment, and pre-game excitement — all leading up to kickoff inside a stadium that will be filled with blue and gold.
Montana State has organized travel opportunities, hotel blocks, and fan gatherings throughout the weekend, turning the championship into a full Bobcat experience well beyond the field.
Game Time, Broadcast Info & How to Watch
The National Championship game kicks off on Monday, January 5, with kickoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time.
Here’s how Bobcat fans can follow every play:
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📺 Live on ESPN, airing nationwide
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📻 Bobcat Radio Network, broadcasting across Montana
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📱 Real-time updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes coverage via Montana State Athletics social channels
Whether you’re watching from a living room in Bozeman, a local watch party, or from the stands in Nashville, there’s no shortage of ways to stay connected.
Montana State’s Championship Path — Built for This Moment
The Montana State Bobcats arrive in Nashville battle-tested, confident, and no strangers to the national spotlight. Throughout the season and postseason, the Bobcats have displayed the identity that has come to define the program — physical football, disciplined execution, and the ability to rise when the stakes are highest.
After a rocky start in the second round of the playoffs, the Bobcats responded the way championship teams do — with two decisive, statement wins that propelled Montana State into the National Championship game. The late-season surge underscored the resilience, depth, and leadership that have become defining traits of Bobcat football.
While Illinois State enters the matchup after an unprecedented postseason run — including road victories over the No. 1 seed North Dakota State and No. 12 Villanova Wildcats — the storyline in Nashville centers on Montana State’s pursuit of a national title, a goal built through years of growth, experience, and belief. With championship experience, a driven roster, and Bobcat Nation traveling in force, Montana State is poised to seize the moment.
The Matchup: Bobcats vs. Redbirds
Standing across the field will be the Illinois State Redbirds, a talented and resilient opponent that has earned its place in the championship. Their presence adds to the drama and intensity of the matchup, setting the stage for a hard-fought contest worthy of the national title.
But for Montana fans, the focus remains firmly on the Bobcats — a team that has consistently proven it can perform under pressure and deliver on the biggest stages, led by a veteran core of 26 seniors who have battled together for years and bring invaluable experience to this moment.
Heading to Nashville? What Fans Should Know
For those traveling to Tennessee, championship weekend will be packed with Bobcat-centric events. Alumni gatherings, organized fan meetups, and pre-game celebrations will take place throughout Nashville leading up to kickoff.
Tickets are available through official NCAA channels and authorized sellers, with designated seating sections for Montana State fans to help create a true Bobcat presence inside the stadium. With winter travel and high demand, fans are encouraged to plan early.
Watching from Home: Bobcat Nation Shows Up Everywhere
Not everyone will make the trip — and that’s part of what makes Bobcat Nation special. From Bozeman to Billings and beyond, bars, restaurants, and living rooms across Montana will be filled with fans in blue and gold.
Local watch parties and alumni events offer the perfect way to experience the game together, keeping the spirit of Bobcat football strong no matter the distance.
More Than a Game — A Moment for Montana
This National Championship represents more than a final score. It’s a celebration of a program, a community, and a state that shows up — year after year — to support its team.
As the Bobcats take the field in Nashville, they carry with them the pride of Montana and the energy of a fanbase that believes. However you’re watching, this is a moment to savor.
Let’s go, Cats!
