Full Breakdown
Montana Grizzlies Overcome Idaho State Bengals in Thrilling 42-38 Comeback
10/5/2025, 3:56:03 PM
Game Overview
On October 4, 2025, the fourth-ranked Montana Grizzlies faced the Idaho State Bengals at the ICCU Dome in Pocatello, Idaho, in a highly competitive Big Sky Conference matchup. The Grizzlies, aiming to maintain their undefeated record, rallied from a 13-point deficit to secure a 42-38 victory, marking their 16th consecutive win over the Bengals.
Key Moments and Scoring Summary
The game featured a back-and-forth scoring battle, with both teams combining for over 1,000 yards of offense. Montana opened the scoring with a 21-yard touchdown run by Michael Wortham, but Idaho State quickly responded with an 8-yard touchdown run from Dason Brooks, tying the game at 7-7. The first quarter ended with both teams tied at 10-10 after field goals from Ty Morrison and Trajan Sinatra.
Idaho State took a lead in the second quarter, going up 24-18 after a 30-yard touchdown pass from Jordan Cooke to Julian Mason. However, Montana answered with a trick play that resulted in a touchdown pass from Wortham to Josh Gale, followed by a successful two-point conversion, giving the Grizzlies an 18-17 lead. The Bengals reclaimed the lead before halftime, ending the second quarter at 24-18.
In the third quarter, Idaho State extended their lead to 31-18, but Montana responded with a touchdown pass from Keali'i Ah Yat to Eli Gillman, narrowing the gap to 31-25. The Bengals scored again, leading 38-28 at the end of the third quarter.
The final quarter saw Montana score two touchdowns, including a crucial 9-yard run by Wortham that put the Grizzlies ahead 42-38 with just over three minutes remaining. Idaho State's final drive ended in an incompletion on fourth down, sealing the victory for Montana.
Player Performances
Michael Wortham was instrumental for Montana, contributing significantly with two rushing touchdowns, a touchdown pass, and 247 all-purpose yards. Quarterback Keali'i Ah Yat threw for 350 yards and one touchdown, while Eli Gillman added a rushing touchdown. For Idaho State, quarterback Jordan Cooke had a standout performance, completing 33 of 54 passes for 421 yards and two touchdowns.
Official Statements & Responses
Montana's head coach Bobby Hauck praised his team's resilience, stating, "We showed a lot of heart coming back from a tough situation." Idaho State's head coach Cody Hawkins expressed disappointment but acknowledged his team's effort, saying, "I'm proud of the way we played, but it hurts to come so close."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the loss, Idaho State's performance drew commendation, particularly for their offensive strategy. Coach Hawkins noted the need for better balance in their run-pass game, reflecting on missed opportunities that could have changed the outcome. He stated, "We knew we had to score 40 to win, and we didn’t."
What's Next
Following this victory, Montana improved to 5-0 overall and 2-0 in the Big Sky Conference. They will return to Missoula for a homecoming game against Cal Poly on October 11, 2025. Idaho State, now 2-4 overall and 1-1 in conference play, will look to regroup as they prepare for their next matchup against the Montana State Bobcats.
