The group backing two major election reform initiatives cleared the signature-gathering threshold, organizers said Wednesday on the steps of the Montana Capitol.
The group, Montanans for Election Reform, needed over 60,000 signatures from at least 40 legislative districts for each initiative and they reported having more than 200,000 between the two constitutional initiatives.
County offices must approve the signatures before the initiatives are officially slated to appear on November’s ballot.
“It’s a happy day for us and a happy day for Montana,” said Frank Garner, one of the group’s leaders and a former Republican state legislator from Kalispell.
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Former Republican state Rep. Frank Garner speaks at a Montanans for Election Reform event celebrating the signature-gathering effort for ballot initiatives CI-126 and CI-127 at the Montana State Capitol on June 12.
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THOM BRIDGE, Independent Record
Montanans for Election Reform said they bagged signatures from all 56 Montana counties and all 100 House legislative districts. The majority of the signatures came from Missoula County with roughly 57,000 signatures, followed by Yellowstone with roughly 47,000 and Gallatin with about 27,000. When groups gather signatures for these efforts, they often try to obtain more than the required amount because some will be thrown out.
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The first initiative, CI-126, would implement what are called open primaries and the second, C1-127 would require a candidate to receive over 50% of the vote to win.
The open primaries would place all qualified candidates on the same ballot regardless of party and the top four from each office would move onto the general election. CI-126 also stipulates that candidates do not have to list their political party affiliation on the ballot, but may if they choose to. Right now Montana has what is sometimes referred to as a “closed primary,” where voters have to choose which party’s primary to vote in — meaning they can not vote for a Democrat in one race and a Republican in another — when they go to the polls or cast a ballot by mail.
Open primaries backers net $1.1 million almost entirely from PAC and dark money group
If candidates split the votes in the general and no one person obtains an absolute majority, there are a few mechanisms that can be implemented to determine a final victor, and which mechanism Montana implements will be up to the state Legislature. Once the Legislature decides on a system if the initiatives are successful, the following elections will be decided under this new method as soon as 2025.
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If these initiatives are successful they would pertain to all of Montana’s major political offices (such as U.S. senator, U.S. representative, governor and lieutenant governor, auditor, superintendent of public instruction and more) as well as the state Legislature. Notably, the Public Service Commission is not included.
Garner and other supporters of the two initiatives say these changes are needed to reduce the influence of “special interest groups,” reduce political polarization and their hope is that it will force lawmakers to work across the aisle more as opposed to appealing to the extreme end of their base.
While the effort is being led by those of all political stripes, including multiple Republicans, the state GOP is vehemently opposed to the initiatives. The state party has glommed onto the option to leave one’s party affiliation off their name on the ballot.
A flier from the state party that was being handed out at a Granite County Republican Party event called the initiatives “destructive to our election process.”
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A Montanans for Election Reform event celebrating the signature gathering effort for ballot initiatives CI-126 and CI-127 at the Montana State Capitol on June 12.
THOM BRIDGE, Independent Record
“CI-126 / the ‘Top 4 vote-getter’ scheme requires no identified party affiliation for any candidate. It will result in less representation for conservatives, similar to the other states that have experimented with ranked choice voting,” the one-pager reads. “Make no mistake, the ‘Top 4’ scheme’s consequences will be devastating,” it continues.
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The flier finishes by disowning the Republicans supporting this effort, without explicitly naming Garner and other Republicans aligned with the group.
Garner, for his part, bucked his own party Wednesday.
“It has come to my attention that the people who currently benefit from this system apparently don’t want to see more competition and don’t want to see it changed … so that’s not a surprise to us,” Garner told reporters Wednesday, referencing the Republican party’s strong grip on most major offices across the state.
In primary elections, turnout is notoriously low — roughly 40% of registered voters in Montana this year — and in Montana a lot of the races are decided in the primary because there are not many toss-up seats left in the state. In some sense, this trend means that a very small portion of the electorate is deciding on their next representative, something that the backers of the initiatives point to as a downside to the current system.
Multiple people referenced the eastern congressional district Republican primary election in Montana, for example. The winner of that contest, state Auditor Troy Downing, won with 36% of the vote because the share of votes was split between a long ticket of candidates.
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Montanans for Election Reform is now gearing up for an education effort ahead of November’s election.
Victoria Eavis is a reporter for the Montana State News Bureau.
BOZEMAN, Mont. — With eight and a half minutes left in the second quarter, Tommy Mellott — aka Touchdown Tommy, aka The Boy From Butte — ran a quarterback draw straight up the middle, dodging several South Dakota defensive players.
Just a few yards from the end zone, Touchdown Tommy elevated like a Marvel superhero and dove for the goal line. A South Dakota defender upended his legs, flipping Mellott, who landed on the turf just shy of scoring.
On the next play, Mellot handed off to Scottre Humphrey for the go-ahead scoreSaturday in the FCS semifinals at Bobcat Stadium, putting the home team up 21-14. The Cats never looked back as they punished the Coyotes with physical play on defense and magical moves by Mr. Mellott.
Mellott went on to lead the undefeated Bobcats to a 15th straight victory31-17 over South Dakota and a trip to the FCS national championship game Jan. 6 in Frisco, Texas.
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Four MSU teammates with Wyoming roots will be with Mellott playing for the title.
Meanwhile on the South Dakota sideline, Garrett Coon of Sheridan wore shorts and a sweatshirt during the unseasonably warm game. He didn’t dress out in Bozeman, but his brother Colson on the opposite MSU sideline did.
Along with Coon, Montana State boasts three other players who played high school football in Wyoming.
These supporting cast members in the Tommy Mellott show include Dane and Brock Steel, also both from Sheridan, and Jake Vigen, son of MSU Head Coach Brent Vigen, who spent seven years as an assistant coach at the University of Wyomingin Laramie.
Coach Brent Vigen, former assistant at the University of Wyoming, is beloved in Bozeman. (David Madison, Cowboy State Daily)
MSU transfer, current South Dakota player and former Sheridan Bronc Garrett Coon did not dress for the game against his former team, missing the chance to blast down the sideline past his brother, MSU running back Colson Coon. (David Madison, Cowboy State Daily)
Laramie’s loss, Bozeman’s gain: No. 44 Jake Vigen left Laramie High to play for Gallatin High School in Bozeman. He’s now a sophomore defensive end playing for his father’s undefeated Bobcats. (David Madison, Cowboy State Daily)
Coach Brent Vigen, former assistant at the University of Wyoming, is beloved in Bozeman. (David Madison, Cowboy State Daily)
Sheridan product Dane Steel is a freshman wide receiver for Montana State. His brother Brock is a sophomore defensive back. (David Madison, Cowboy State Daily)
A sold out crowd packed the parking lot around Bobcat Stadium before the semifinal showdown with South Dakota. Ryan Harris, Montana State University class of 2011, made the trip up from Golden, Colorado, and brought a hat made with a real bobcat pelt. (David Madison, Cowboy State Daily)
A sold out crowd packed the parking lot around Bobcat Stadium before the semifinal showdown with South Dakota. (David Madison, Cowboy State Daily)
Drum Major Major Dani Espiritu led Montana State’s Spirit of the West Marching Band throughout the spirited game. (David Madison, Cowboy State Daily)
Looks Like An Average Guy
Mellott stands a modest 6 feet tall, weighs 208 pounds and looks like the living cliché of the nice boy next door.
But on the field, the pride of Butte High Schoolis a cold-blooded offensive assassin.
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Now preparing for the final game of his college career, Mellott continues to rack up the accolades.
He was named Big Sky Conference Offensive MVP and a top three finalist for the Walter Payton Award. Coming into the game against South Dakota, Mellott led the nation in points responsible for (246) and passing efficiency (183.21).
Mellott has thrown 259 passes, completing 182 for 2,430 yards and 28 touchdowns on just two interceptions. Mellott also has rushed for 790 yards with 14 rushing touchdowns. His 8.6 yards per carry would lead the nation if he qualified for that NCAA stat, according to the American Football Coaches Association.
He squats as much as an offensive tackle and can outrun some FCS receivers. He’s well-known around Montana, but one of the most under-the-radar football talents now catching the attention of NFL scouts.
“Tommy Mellott, a dual-threat quarterback from Montana State, has emerged as an intriguing prospect for the NFL Draft,” reports nfldraftbuzz.com. “He ranks seventh in Montana State history with 2,474 career rushing yards and is tied for third with 29 rushing touchdowns. His passing ability has also improved, accumulating 3,241 career passing yards, good for 10th in school history. In 2023, Mellott was named Second Team All-Big Sky and won the FedEx Ground Doris Robinson Scholar-Athlete Award, showcasing his academic prowess as a financial engineering major.
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“In the 2021 playoffs, he became the first player to catch, throw, and rush for a touchdown in the first 16 minutes of a game against Sam Houston State.”
Mellott’s size could limit his opportunities as an NFL QB, but he might turn heads as a Wes Welker- or Julian Edelman-style slot receiver at the next level.
On To Frisco
The Bobcats will carry a lot of emotion into the national championship game vs. North Dakota State in Frisco, Texas.
Coach Vigen played for the Bison, then started his coaching career in Fargo. North Dakota State is also Montana State’s biggest rival after the Grizzlies at the University of Montana.
That’s because the Bison have trampled the Bobcats five times, ending their seasons and leaving hoofprints all over their game plans for a national championship.
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But now a former Bison is leading the Cats as Montana State, powered by Mellott, competes for its first title since 1984.
David Madison can be reached at david@cowboystatedaily.com.
BOZEMAN — The clock hit zeroes and “If You’re Gonna Play in Texas” by Alabama blared throughout Bobcat Stadium.
Defensive end Jake Vigen and defensive tackle Alec Eckert dumped a bucket of Powerade on Montana State head coach Brent Vigen (Jake’s father). Fans stormed the field in celebration of the full circle moment.
After coming up short in the FCS national championship in 2021, No. 1 MSU booked a return trip to Frisco, Texas, with a 31-17 win over No. 4 South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
The Bobcats will face No. 2 North Dakota State in the FCS title game on Jan. 6.
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MSU has ended its season against Missouri Valley Football Conference teams each of the last three seasons, with NDSU in the 2021 title game, South Dakota State in the 2022 semis and NDSU again in the 2023 second round.
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Now the Bobcats are “back where we belong,” MSU quarterback Tommy Mellott said. Defensive end Brody Grebe added that he’s glad the opponent will be NDSU because the Bobcats have “something to prove.”
“It’s absolutely a blessing to keep playing football into January,” Mellott said. “That’s what we’re all about here at Montana State.”
Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott talks to reporters after the Bobcats’ 31-17 win over South Dakota in the semifinals of the FCS playoffs Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman.
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Victor Flores
Brent Vigen called it a complete “team win,” with MSU making plays in all three phases. Despite giving up two explosive plays in the first half — rushing touchdowns of 55 and 45 yards, respectively — and only scoring once in the second half, MSU “ultimately found a way” to stave off USD.
Montana State head football coach Brent Vigen talks to reporters after the Bobcats’ 31-17 win over South Dakota in the semifinals of the FCS playoffs Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman.
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Victor Flores
Punter Brendan Hall — who Mellott said has “a bazooka for a leg” — flipped the field with five punts, averaging 54 yards per punt.
MSU finished with 356 total yards (222 rushing, 134 passing) and USD had 371 yards (236 passing, 135 rushing). Mellott had 125 rushing yards and two TDs on 17 carries, and went 8 of 17 for 134 yards and a TD passing.
From left, South Dakota fullback Travis Theis, head football coach Bob Nielson and defensive back Dennis Shorter talk to reporters after the Coyotes’ 31-17 loss to Montana State in the semifinals of the FCS playoffs Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman.
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Victor Flores
Vigen said if Mellott — a Walter Payton Award finalist — isn’t the most impactful player in FCS, it will be decided on the field in the title game against NDSU QB Cam Miller, a fellow Walter Payton top-three finalist.
Mellott got to work quickly with a pass to wide receiver Taco Dowler for a 20-yard gain. Dowler also capped off the opening drive with a 34-yard touchdown.
“He’s a stud,” Mellott said. “We got to find ways every single week to get him the ball, and I think we’ve done a really good job of that.”
Coyotes running back/fullback Travis Theis broke several tackles en route to the end zone on a 55-yard TD run. Safeties Dru Polidore and Rylan Ortt initially missed, followed by linebacker Neil Daily missing and colliding with defensive back Andrew Powdrell.
Theis finished with 110 rushing yards on 14 carries, along with seven catches for 80 yards.
“We had a heck of a time with Theis,” Vigen said, adding, “That was something we anticipated, that he was going to be one of the better players that we’ve seen all year.”
MSU regained the lead with a 5-yard TD run by Mellott.
The Coyotes opened the second quarter with another big run — this time a 45-yard TD scamper by RB Charles Pierre Jr. It’s the first time the Bobcats have surrendered multiple runs of 45-plus yards in a single game this season.
That run also put USD over 100 rushing yards. But the Coyotes were held to 45 rushing yards the rest of the game. Pierre finished with 57 yards on four carries.
“We knew we had to get those (explosive plays) out because besides that, they weren’t having a ton of success,” Grebe said, adding, “And that’s going to happen in those heavy personnels.
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“But getting those big plays stopped, those explosive plays, that’s what helped us in the second half ultimately close out that game.”
Montana State defensive end Brody Grebe talks to reporters after the Bobcats’ 31-17 win over South Dakota in the semifinals of the FCS playoffs Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman.
Victor Flores
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MSU rattled off a 12-play, 74-yard scoring drive to regain the lead. After a defensive holding call on USD, RB Scottre Humphrey scored a 1-yard TD.
MSU kicker Myles Sansted added a 28-yard field goal with 8 seconds left in the first half to make it 24-14 MSU at the break.
The Bobcats led in total yardage (269-183) and in time of possession (20:28-9:32) at halftime. Mellott also surpassed 1,000 career playoff rushing yards (1,006) and the Bobcats broke their single-season rushing record (4,428) in the first half.
While he would’ve liked a TD to end the first half — as well as better offensive efficiency in the second half — Vigen said controlling time of possession was critical, especially in the first half. MSU ultimately won 32:04-27:56.
“We were just trying to bring it home,” Vigen said. “And ultimately we were able to do that.”
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Mellott got MSU back to midfield on a 26-yard scramble. He later bobbled the snap on a third-and-1, burst up the middle, hurdled USD’s Josiah Ganues and scored a 41-yard TD to put MSU up 31-14.
Vigen said it might be the craziest play he’s seen from Mellott, a product of a “fortuitous bounce” and taking advantage of chaos.
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“That play, the unscripted, the competitive nature, he certainly could have gone down on that play,” Vigen added. “Somehow he kept his balance and I’m sure they were wondering what the heck just happened.”
The Coyotes later kicked a 46-yard FG to make it 31-17.
USD had two potential scoring drives in the fourth quarter snuffed out by the MSU defense. The Coyotes lost 11 yards on a botched snap. On a fourth-and-13, tight end JJ Galbreath was knocked out of bounds short of the line to gain by MSU DB Tayden Gray.
On the second drive, Grebe and DE Kenneth Eiden IV bull-rushed Bouman for a sack on a third-and-5. Cornerback Simeon Woodard broke up a pass intended for USD’s Carter Bell in the end zone on fourth-and-10.
Vigen said the Bobcats defended the pass well all game, largely holding the Coyotes to check downs. Bouman went 20 of 29 for 236 yards, with three completions of 20-plus yards.
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“We did not give them the home run, and they were going after the home run over and over again,” Vigen said, adding, “We got ourselves in some one-on-ones and we were able to make those plays and really challenge them.”
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) flips the ball out of his hands after scoring against South Dakota during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
Shawn Raecke/For the Chronicle
Grebe also pointed to the win over UC Davis, when the Aggies nearly overcame a 30-8 deficit in the fourth quarter. On Saturday, the Bobcats were once again in danger of losing momentum.
“Today, we were able to get those stops, and that was huge for our team to keep a little comfort there, that we could finish out the game with the two-score lead,” Grebe added.
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The last gasp for USD came on an attempted hook-and-ladder from Galbreath to Quaron Adams. But Adams couldn’t handle the lateral and Grebe recovered the fumble. Mellott kneeled it out to seal the win.
Montana State’s Brody Grebe recovers a South Dakota fumble with 1:41 left to secure the Bobcats’ 31-17 victory, which earned them a trip back to the FCS championship.
Lindsay Rossmiller
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It was the same fashion MSU punched its ticket to Frisco in 2021, with then-DE Daniel Hardy recovering the ball to beat SDSU 31-17.
“There’s nothing like that,” Grebe added. “And I’m so happy that I was able to go out this way in Bobcat Stadium.”
After the game felt “pretty surreal” for Grebe, who still remembers playing throughout the 2021 playoff run as a freshman alongside seniors he admired. Mellott said he was overwhelmed during that run and trying to take every game one at a time.
Now, the Bobcats have the built-in experience for another run at a national title. Vigen said his team will “not leave a stone unturned” as they look toward a rematch against the Bison.
“We’re going to have to prepare like crazy over the next couple weeks to put ourselves in position,” Vigen added. “But I think that we’re gonna go down there with a team that’s going to be right in the fight.”
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The Montana State football team runs out before its game against South Dakota in the semifinals of the FCS playoffs Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman.
Victor Flores
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Photos: Montana State Bobcats beat South Dakota Coyotes in FCS semifinals
Montana State running back Adam Jones (23) looks ahead while wide receiver Taco Dowler (14) blocks during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
Shawn Raecke/For the Chronicle
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Montana State cornerback Jon Johnson (4) breaks up a pass intended for South Dakota’s Javion Phelps (8) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) flips the ball out of his hands after scoring against South Dakota during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Kenneth Eiden IV (11) and Paul Brott (96) celebrate a stop during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott scrambles during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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South Dakota’s Charles Pierre Jr. (3) runs away from the Montana State defense en route to the end zone in an FCS semifinal game Saturday.
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South Dakota’s Charles Pierre Jr. (3) runs away from the Montana State defense en route to the end zone in an FCS semifinal game Saturday.
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Montana State defensive end Brody Grebe (41) fights through a block during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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The Montana State student section and Champ the mascot quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) set up the offense during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s McCade O’Reilly (43) and Brody Grebe (41) pursue South Dakota’s Travis Theis (5) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) tries to evade South Dakota’s Dennis Shorter (2) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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The Montana State student section and Champ the mascot watch quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) set up the offense during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State cornerback Jon Johnson (4) breaks up a pass intended for South Dakota’s Javion Phelps (8) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State wide receiver Taco Dowler makes a catch during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State defensive end Brody Grebe (41) pursues South Dakota running back Travis Theis (right) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Jhase McMillan (12) tackles South Dakota’s Keyondray Logan-Jones (7) on a kickoff return during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) handles the snap from center Cole Sain (56) during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Adam Jones (23), fullback Rohan Jones (8) and wide receiver Taco Dowler (14) celebrate a touchdown during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Jhase McMillan (12) tackles South Dakota’s Keyondray Logan-Jones (7) on a kickoff return during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) attempts to hurdle South Dakota’s Dennis Shorter (2) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) attempts to hurdle South Dakota’s Dennis Shorter (2) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) attempts to hurdle South Dakota’s Dennis Shorter (2) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State wide receiver Taco Dowler makes a catch during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State head coach Brent Vigen looks on during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State wide receiver Taco Dowler (14) tries to evade South Dakota defenders during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) fires a pass while pressured by South Dakota’s Nick Gaes (54) during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State running back Adam Jones (23) fights through a tackle against South Dakota during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State wide receiver Taco Dowler makes a catch during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Unterrio Latin-Henley celebrates beating South Dakota in the semifinals and the Bobcats going to Frisco, Texas, for the FCS National Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans rush the field after beating South Dakota in the FCS semifinals on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans rush the field after beating South Dakota in the semifinals on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Logan Fredericksen hugs a teammate in the celebration on the field after beating South Dakota and advancing to the FCS Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Hunter Provience (88) hugs Rylan Schlepp in the celebration on the field after beating South Dakota to advance to the FCS Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Rylan Schlepp (88) hugs Montana State President Waded Cruzado after the Bobcats beat South Dakota and advanced to the FCS Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Colter Petre high fives fans as he leaves the field on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Ty McCullouch hugs a loved one as defensive line coach/co-defensive coordinator Shawn Howe (right) after advancing to the FCS Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s McCade O’Reilly hugs a loved one after the Bobcats beat South Dakota and advanced to the FCS Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s McCade O’Reilly smokes a cigar after after the Bobcats beat South Dakota and advanced to the FCS Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Brendan Hall signs fans’ hats after the Bobcats beat South Dakota and advanced to the FCS Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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A Montana State fan rests on his father’s shoulder on the field after the Bobcats beat South Dakota and advanced to the FCS Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans gather on the field to celebrate after the Bobcats beat South Dakota and advanced on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Carson Williams celebrates beating South Dakota in the FCS semifinals Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans celebrate the defense stopping South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Tommy Mellott runs the ball during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Spirit of the West cheer the football team on during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Bryce Grebe defends a pass to South Dakota’s JJ Galbreath during the semifinal game on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans celebrate the defense stopping South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Champ crowd surfs during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans celebrate the defense stopping South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s spirit squad celebrates the team going to Frisco for the FCS National Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Unterrio Latin-Henley celebrates beating South Dakota in the semifinals and the team going to Frisco for the FCS National Championship on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Carson Williams celebrates a tackle of South Dakota’s Keyondray Jones-Logan during the semifinal game on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Ty McCullouch runs past South Dakota’s Nick Gaes as Rylan Schlepp (88) blocks during the semifinal game on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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The Montana State’ fans motion to a Bobcat first down during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Taco Dowler catches and runs with the ball as South Dakota’s Josiah Ganues (6) pursues during the semifinal game on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Tommy Mellott catches a snap from Cole Sain (56) during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Tommy Mellott runs for a touchdown during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Tommy Mellott scores a touchdown during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans cheer on the team during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans cheer on the team during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans cheer on the team during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Tommy Mellott throws a pass during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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The Montana State’s Lonyatta Alexander Jr. gets tackled by a South Dakota defender on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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The Montana State’s Lonyatta Alexander Jr. runs a route against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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The Montana State’s Tommy Mellott jumps over South Dakota’s Dennis Shorter during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Lonyatta Alexander Jr. celebrates a touchdown from Scottre Humphrey (22) during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Zac Waible celebrates a touchdown during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s spirit squad performs on the sidelines during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans celebrate the defense stopping South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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From left, Montana State senior captains Tommy Mellott, Justus Perkins, Rylan Ortt and Brody Grebe hold hands as they head out for the coin toss before their game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Taco Dowler catches a touchdown pass during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Myles Sansted kicks an extra point during the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Jhase McMillan (12) and other Bobcats tackle South Dakota’s Keyondray Jones-Logan during the semifinal game on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State rodeo team prepares to run onto the field to kick off the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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The Montana State ROTC Team carries the flag onto the field before the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State fans stand for the national anthem before the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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A Montana State salutes during the national anthem before the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State Spirit Squad members hug before their final home game of the 2024 season at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State Spirit Squad hugs before their final home game of the 2024 season at Bobcat Stadium.
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Aidan Garrigan (85) and other member of the Montana State football team runs out onto the field before the semifinal game against South Dakota on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott braces for impact during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Zac Crews (36) and Paul Brott (96) rush the South Dakota offense during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State running back Adam Jones runs down the sideline during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State running back Adam Jones runs down the sideline during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State running back Adam Jones (23) runs while wide receiver Taco Dowler (14) during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State running back Adam Jones (23) runs down the sideline during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State head coach Brent Vigen looks on during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott eyes the South Dakota defense during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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The Montana State Bobcats took on the South Dakota Coyotes in the semifinals of the FCS playoffs at Bobcat Stadium on Saturday, December 21, 2024.
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Montana State defensive end Brody Grebe (41) comes off a block during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State punter Brendan Hall (93) punts during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott runs against South Dakota during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State captains Brody Grebe (41), Rylan Ortt (26), Justus Perkins (65) and Tommy Mellott (4) walk out for the pregame coin toss ahead of an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Cole Sain (56) and Burke Mastel (64) line up before a play against South Dakota in an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State center Justus Perkins (65) runs out with the Montana state flag ahead of an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State offensive lineman Titan Fleischmann (66) and Taco Dowler (14) celebrate in the end zone during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Cole Sain (56), Burke Mastel (64) and Conner Moore (72) line up before a play against South Dakota in an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott looks downfield to pass during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott (4) eyes the South Dakota defense during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott looks for the snap during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State center Justus Perkins (65) runs out with the Montana state flag ahead of an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State center Justus Perkins runs out with the Montana state flag ahead of an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State offensive line coach Al Johnson (center) talks to offensive linemen Titan Fleischmann (66), Burke Mastel (64) and Conner Moore (72) during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State running backs coach Sam Mix (left) and offensive assistant Sean Chambers (center) signal from the sideline during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott runs up the middle against South Dakota State during an FCS semifinal game Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State center Justus Perkins (65) yells before an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
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Montana State’s Lonyatta Alexander Jr. (2), Ryan Lonergan (87) and Scottre Humphrey (22) pose in the end zone during an FCS semifinal game against South Dakota Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
BOZEMAN — Top-seeded Montana State (14-0) will take on fourth-seeded University of South Dakota (11-2) at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Bobcat Stadium in the semifinals of the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs.
This is USD’s first trip to the semis, while MSU has reached the final four for the fourth time in five seasons.
The Bobcats are 9 1/2-point favorites to win Saturday’s game. Whoever prevails will face North Dakota State in the national championship game. NDSU beat rival South Dakota State 28-21 in the semis Saturday in Fargo, North Dakota.
MSU beat Idaho 52-19 at home last week in the quarterfinals, while the Coyotes prevailed 35-21 at home over a different Big Sky Conference team, UC Davis.
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The Cats are 2-0 against USD. Two teams first met in 2008, the Coyotes’ first season after moving up from Division II to D-I. MSU won that game 37-18 and beat USD 31-24 back in Bozeman a year later.
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The Bobcats have set program records for single-season victories and longest winning streak. Their last trip to the FCS title game happened in 2021, when they beat South Dakota State 31-17 at Bobcat Stadium in the semis and lost to North Dakota State 38-10 a few weeks later in Frisco, Texas.
Pregame
MSU All-Americans Scottre Humphrey (running back) and Rohan Jones (fullback/tight end) are both active after missing last week’s game due to injury.
Cats head coach Brent Vigen is one win away from tying Sonny Holland for second-most wins in program history (47). A win Saturday would also give Vigen 30 home wins as MSU head coach, tying him with Cliff Hysell for second-most as a Bobcat. Rob Ash owns both records, with 70 overall wins and 43 at home.
MSU is 73 rushing yards away from matching its record for rushing yards in a season (4,366, set in 2022) and is one touchdown away from tying its single-season rushing TD record (49, also set in 2022).
The flag bearers for the Cats during the pregame runout were defensive back Tayden Gray (American) and center Justus Perkins (Montanan), a Bozeman native.
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First quarter
MSU got the ball first and scored with 11 minutes, 56 seconds on the clock. Tommy Mellott hit Taco Dowler for a 34-yard TD pass to put the Cats up 7-0.
The Cats have now allowed a play of at least 55 yards for the fourth time in five games. It’s the 83rd play of at least 20 yards for USD this season, according to the Bozeman Daily Chronicle.
USD forced what appeared to be a three-and-out on the next drive, but a Coyote jumped offsides before the punt attempt, turning a fourth-and-3 into a first down. MSU punted four plays later.
USD went three-and-out on its next drive, after a false start on third-and4 and a pass breakup from MSU cornerback Jon Johnson on the resulting third-and-9.
Mellott put MSU back up by seven points with a 5-yard TD rush with 1:04 on the clock. A 28-yard pass to Dowler set up the score.
MSU broke the program record for single-season rushing yards on the 12-play, 74-yard drive. Humphrey’s TD put MSU at 4,384 ground yards this season. The previous mark was 4,366 in 2022.
Humphrey now has a team-leading 15 rushing TDs this season, the fifth-most in MSU history.
A Kenneth Eiden IV sack led to a USD punt on the following drive.
Myles Sansted made a 28-yard field goal with eight seconds left to put MSU ahead 24-14.
SCORE: Montana State 24, South Dakota 14
This story will be updated.
Victor Flores is the Montana State Bobcats beat writer for 406 MT Sports. Email him at victor.flores@406mtsports.com and follow him on Twitter/X at @VictorFlores406
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