Montana State Overcomes Stephen F. Austin 44-28 in FCS Quarterfinal

Published

4 months ago

13 December, 2025

Editorial

In a decisive performance, the No. 2 Montana State Bobcats defeated the No. 7 Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks 44-28 in the FCS quarterfinals held on December 9, 2023. This victory, marked by a season-high 227 rushing yards, ended Stephen F. Austin’s impressive eight-game winning streak.

Montana State showcased a dominant offensive strategy, scoring on six of their first eight possessions. The Bobcats never trailed during the matchup, improving their record to 12-2 and securing a place in the national semifinals. Stephen F. Austin concluded their season with an 11-3 record.

Adam Jones was a standout performer, rushing for 114 yards and two touchdowns. The game began with Jones driving the Bobcats forward, capping off a 10-play, 65-yard series with a 1-yard touchdown run. Quarterback Justin Lamson further extended the lead in the second quarter, throwing two touchdown passes—one to Jones for 21 yards and another to Luvens Valcin for 3 yards—resulting in a commanding 24-0 advantage.

As halftime approached, the Lumberjacks managed to respond. They orchestrated a 75-yard drive in just 1:22, culminating in an 11-yard touchdown pass from Sam Vidlak to Clayton Wayland. This successful two-point conversion brought the score to 24-8.

The second half saw the Lumberjacks tighten the score further. Jaylen Jenkins scored a 5-yard touchdown run, reducing the deficit to 24-14. However, Montana State quickly regained control with a field goal from Myles Sansted and a 5-yard rushing touchdown by Lamson, pushing the lead back to 34-14.

Despite Jenkins scoring again late in the third quarter, the Bobcats responded decisively early in the fourth. On their first play, Jones broke free for a 16-yard touchdown run, effectively sealing the game. Notably, Stephen F. Austin became only the second FCS team to score 28 points against Montana State this season, with no other opponent surpassing 17 points in regulation.

Montana State now awaits the winner of the semifinal matchup between No. 3 Montana and No. 11 South Dakota, aiming to continue their strong postseason run.