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Montana State Faces Illinois State in FCS Championship Showdown

1/3/2026

Summary

Bobcats Face Redbirds

The FCS National Championship on January 5, 2026, in Nashville pits the Montana State Bobcats against the Illinois State Redbirds.
Montana State quarterback Justin Lamson shows accuracy and fewer turnovers than Illinois State's Tommy Rittenhouse.
Running back Adam Jones has excelled in the postseason.
The game highlights Montana State's Daniel Sobkowicz and Taco Dowler, and Illinois State's CJ Richard Jr., Garret Steffen, and Tye Niekamp.

Summary

Bobcats Pursue Title

The Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) National Championship on January 5, 2026, in Nashville will feature the Montana State Bobcats and Illinois State Redbirds, led by Montana State quarterback Justin Lamson and Illinois State quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse.
This will be the first meeting between the Montana State Bobcats and Illinois State Redbirds.
Montana State seeks its first title since 1984.
Illinois State aims for its first championship after a 2014 loss.

History

Historical Context

The 1984 FCS National Championship was a significant event in college football history, marking the last title for the Montana State Bobcats, who defeated Louisiana Tech. This victory came during a period of intense competition in the FCS, which has evolved since its inception in 1978. Today, the Bobcats face Illinois State, aiming for their first championship since a close loss in 2014.

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Bobcats Face Redbirds

The FCS National Championship on January 5, 2026, in Nashville pits the Montana State Bobcats against the Illinois State Redbirds.
Montana State quarterback Justin Lamson shows accuracy and fewer turnovers than Illinois State's Tommy Rittenhouse.
Running back Adam Jones has excelled in the postseason.
The game highlights Montana State's Daniel Sobkowicz and Taco Dowler, and Illinois State's CJ Richard Jr., Garret Steffen, and Tye Niekamp.

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