BREAKING: In a stunning climax to the FCS national championship, Montana State edged out Illinois State 35-34 in overtime, marking the first time in the 48-year history of the FCS championship that an overtime was played. The thrilling showdown unfolded at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, on January 5, 2026, in front of a record crowd of 24,105 fans.
Illinois State’s hopes for a Cinderella story were dashed despite an impressive comeback from a 14-point deficit. The Redbirds, unseeded entering the playoffs, fought valiantly, tying the game in the final moments of regulation before taking their first lead in overtime. However, they ultimately fell short when Montana State blocked Illinois State’s extra-point attempt following their touchdown.
Montana State, now 14-2 for the season, celebrated their first national championship since 1984. Quarterback Justin Lamson threw for 280 yards and two touchdowns, earning him the MVP award. The decisive touchdown came on a 14-yard pass to Taco Dowler on a crucial fourth-and-10 play, sealing their victory.
“We just couldn’t find one more play, and we needed to make one more play in order to win it,” said Illinois State coach Brock Spack.
Despite their loss, Illinois State showcased remarkable resilience, especially quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse, who threw for 311 yards and four touchdowns. He connected with redshirt freshman Dylan Lord for two touchdowns, including a spectacular 25-yard touchdown that tied the game at 28-28 in the fourth quarter. Lord finished with 161 yards on 13 receptions.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions. After a blocked field goal attempt with just 57 seconds left in regulation, the Redbirds managed to force overtime, but their special teams faltered when it mattered most. The blocking of both the field goal and the extra point proved pivotal in the outcome.
“It’s very disappointing,” Spack lamented. “We spent a lot of time on special teams, but there are no gimmes. You have to execute, and we didn’t.”
Montana State’s defense also made critical plays, particularly in the first half, where they built a 21-7 lead at halftime. However, Illinois State tightened their defense in the second half, making key stops, including a crucial sack of Lamson that forced a punt in the final moments of regulation.
In the postgame press conference, emotions ran high as both teams reflected on the historic nature of the game. Rittenhouse expressed his heartbreak but also appreciation for the experience, saying, “That was a classic football game right there.”
As Montana State players celebrated on the field, a near decade-long wait for a championship victory came to a euphoric end. Fans rushed the field to join the celebration, marking a moment of triumph for the Bobcats and a bittersweet conclusion for the Redbirds.
The implications of this match extend beyond the scoreboard; it showcased the heart and determination of both teams, particularly Illinois State, which proved they belonged on the national stage despite being unseeded entering the playoffs.
Looking ahead, Montana State will celebrate their championship, while Illinois State will regroup and reflect on a valiant season filled with unforgettable moments. This game will surely be remembered as a historic chapter in FCS football.
