Montana Advances to FCS Title Game With Absurdly Chaotic Two-Point Conversion

The Grizzlies and North Dakota State emptied their playbooks in a classic double-overtime duel.

At the highest level of college football—FBS—bowl season is a time to leave it all on the dancefloor, because the sport’s longtime lack of a definitive playoff system has traditionally incentivized it.

Fortunately for fans, the staid, old top division doesn't have a monopoly on postseason shenanigans.

Montana and North Dakota State proved that Saturday, playing a wild FCS semifinal in MIssoula that captivated a national television audience—even amid a crowded slate of bowl games.

The Grizzlies and Bison entered the second overtime tied at 23, and Montana turned its possession into a 13-yard touchdown run by running back Eli Gillman. Wide receiver Junior Bergen then threw a pass to wide receiver Keelan White on a trick play for the mandatory two-point conversion.

North Dakota State responded with a two-yard touchdown from running back TK Marshall to trim Montana’s lead to 31–29. Seemingly inspired by the Grizzlies’ trickery, the Bison tried their own misdirection play, only for Montana cornerback Corbin Walker to intercept wide receiver RaJa Nelson.

The Grizzlies will play South Dakota State in the FCS championship on Jan. 7. If you're a fan of entertaining football, miss that one at your own risk.