Montana State University and Illinois State University will face off in the highly anticipated FCS Championship on January 5, 2025, at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. This matchup marks a pivotal moment for both teams, as they compete for the coveted title that has eluded Montana State for four decades.
Montana State enters the championship game with momentum, having secured an impressive 13 consecutive victories. The Bobcats reached this stage after defeating their long-standing rivals, the University of Montana, in the semifinals with a decisive score of 48-23. After finishing just three points shy of the title last year, the Bobcats are eager to claim their first championship since 1984.
Conversely, Illinois State has made a remarkable playoff run, overcoming significant odds to reach the final. The Redbirds entered the tournament unseeded but stunned the top-ranked North Dakota State in the second round, winning 29-28. They continued their impressive journey through the playoffs, defeating Villanova in the semifinals 30-14. This game represents Illinois State’s return to the championship stage for the first time since their heartbreaking loss in 2014.
Broadcast Details for the FCS Championship
Fans can catch the action live on ESPN, with coverage starting at 7:30 p.m. ET. The broadcast team will feature play-by-play commentator Dave Flemming, analyst Brock Osweiler, and sideline reporter Stormy Buonantony. For those unable to watch on television, the game will be available for streaming on the ESPN app and Fubo, allowing viewers to enjoy the championship from anywhere.
Listeners can also tune in to the radio broadcast on SiriusXM channel 84, which offers coverage of the game for subscribers. New users can take advantage of a promotional offer that provides access to SiriusXM for four months at no cost.
Road to the Championship
Both teams have faced rigorous competition throughout the playoffs, demonstrating their resilience and skill. Montana State’s path included a strong semifinal performance against Montana, while Illinois State’s journey has been marked by notable upsets.
Throughout the playoffs, Montana State’s offense has been formidable, showcasing their ability to score under pressure. Meanwhile, Illinois State has proven to be a tough opponent on the road, consistently challenging higher-seeded teams and emerging victorious.
As the championship approaches, anticipation builds among fans and players alike. The stakes are high for both programs, with Montana State seeking to end a long title drought and Illinois State aiming to reclaim glory after nearly a decade.
With both teams poised for an intense battle, the FCS Championship promises to deliver an exciting conclusion to the season. Fans across the nation are encouraged to tune in and witness this significant sporting event.
