UPDATE: In a thrilling finish at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Illinois State’s dream season ended in heartbreaking fashion as they fell to Montana State, 35-34, in the first overtime of an FCS national championship game on January 5, 2026.
The Redbirds, who entered the playoffs unseeded, fought valiantly to tie the game after trailing by 14 points in the second half. Illinois State took their first lead in overtime, but a blocked extra point attempt sealed their fate in a nail-biting showdown.
Montana State, ranked No. 2, celebrated their first national title since 1984 after an emotional night that drew a crowd of 24,105, the largest for an FCS title game since 1996.
“We just couldn’t find one more play,” Illinois State coach Brock Spack said. “When you look at a game, it’s a one-point loss like that, there’s probably 10, 15, maybe even 20 plays in the game.”
Montana State’s quarterback, Justin Lamson, was named MVP after throwing for 280 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner—a 14-yard pass to Taco Dowler on fourth-and-10 in overtime. The Bobcats blocked a crucial field goal attempt from Illinois State’s Michael Cosentino just minutes before, a pivotal moment in the game.
Illinois State’s quarterback, Tommy Rittenhouse, had an impressive performance, throwing for 311 yards and four touchdowns. His standout receiver, redshirt freshman Dylan Lord, caught 13 passes for 161 yards and two touchdowns, showing resilience after trailing for much of the game.
Rittenhouse connected with Lord late in the fourth quarter for a 25-yard touchdown that tied the game at 28-28, marking a dramatic comeback for the Redbirds, who had not reached the FCS title game since 2014.
Despite the loss, Spack praised his team’s effort, saying, “You put your all into this team. It’s so close. Sometimes you just fall short, and that’s part of life.”
The Redbirds’ season, which included stunning victories over top-ranked teams, showcased their determination and skill. However, the heartbreaking loss in overtime left players grappling with mixed emotions of pride and disappointment.
As the celebrations erupted on the field for Montana State, Illinois State’s players reflected on their journey. “That was a classic football game right there,” Rittenhouse stated, encapsulating the intensity of the night.
Looking ahead, both teams will likely build on this historic matchup, with Montana State celebrating their newfound glory while Illinois State aims to return stronger next season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as they prepare for future competitions.
This thrilling encounter not only captivated the fans in attendance but also left a lasting mark on the history of college football. Share your thoughts on this unforgettable game and what it means for the future of both teams.
