The 2024 NCAA FCS Championship kicks off with an exciting First Round matchup between the Tennessee State Tigers and the Montana Grizzlies. This game, scheduled for 10:15 PM ET on November 30, 2024, at Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula, Montana, promises to deliver an intense contest between two powerhouse teams from the FCS ranks.

Game Details

• Date & Time: November 30, 2024, 10:15 PM ET
• Location: Washington-Grizzly Stadium
• Coverage: ESPN+ (for streaming)
• Live stream: Watch here

Team Overview

Tennessee State Tigers (9-3)
Tennessee State enters the First Round with a solid 9-3 record. The Tigers have demonstrated consistent performance throughout the season, culminating in a 28-21 victory over SEMO in their final regular season game. Quarterback D. Ellis has been a key figure for the Tigers, completing 227 passes for 2,718 yards, 21 touchdowns, and just 7 interceptions. His ability to control the game through the air will be critical in this matchup. Additionally, running back J. McGill has been a steady contributor in the ground game with 502 yards and 2 touchdowns, giving Tennessee State a balanced offensive attack. Wide receiver K. Brenson leads the receiving corps with 841 yards and 4 touchdowns, providing Ellis with a reliable target in the passing game.

Montana Grizzlies (8-4)
Montana enters the playoffs with an 8-4 record. Despite a tough 34-11 loss to Montana State in their final game of the regular season, the Grizzlies have had a strong season overall. Quarterback L. Fife has thrown for 1,788 yards, 14 touchdowns, and only 2 interceptions. Montana’s ground game is spearheaded by E. Gillman, who has racked up 956 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Gillman’s ability to break tackles and control the pace of the game will be key to the Grizzlies’ success. Wide receiver K. White has been Fife’s top target, catching 50 passes for 548 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Game Breakdown

Both teams come into this game with impressive rosters, but they have had different trajectories in their respective seasons. Tennessee State has been more consistent in recent weeks, winning four of their last five games. In contrast, Montana has struggled at times, losing three of their last five games, including their season finale against Montana State.

In terms of game strategy, Tennessee State will look to exploit the passing game with Ellis’ arm and Brenson’s receiving ability. The Tigers will also need to control the clock with McGill on the ground to keep Montana’s offense off the field. Defensively, Tennessee State will have to keep Montana’s run game in check and prevent Fife from getting comfortable in the pocket.

Montana, on the other hand, will look to lean on its defense and the power running game of Gillman. If the Grizzlies can establish the run early, it will set up play-action opportunities for Fife to stretch the field. Montana’s defense, traditionally one of the stronger units in the FCS, will need to stop the Tennessee State offense from gaining momentum and putting points on the board quickly.

Key Players to Watch

• D. Ellis (Tennessee State) – The Tigers’ quarterback will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game. His ability to make plays through the air will be key to Tennessee State’s success.
• J. McGill (Tennessee State) – As the Tigers’ top rusher, McGill’s ability to move the ball on the ground will help balance the offense.
• E. Gillman (Montana) – The Grizzlies’ top running back has been a workhorse for the team all season long and will play a pivotal role in controlling the game clock.
• L. Fife (Montana) – Montana’s quarterback has been efficient and will need to make big plays in the passing game to keep the Grizzlies in contention.

Game Odds and Predictions

As of now, Montana is favored by 17 points with a total over/under of 48.5 points. With the game being played in Missoula, Montana, the Grizzlies will have the home-field advantage, which could be a significant factor, especially with the cold weather conditions expected in the area.

The Tennessee State Tigers will be looking to pull off the upset, but Montana’s solid defense and potent running game could prove difficult for the Tigers to overcome.

Prediction: Montana 31, Tennessee State 24

Conclusion

This First Round matchup is shaping up to be a hard-fought battle between two strong FCS teams. Tennessee State will rely on its passing game and defense to advance, while Montana will look to control the tempo with its powerful running game and defensive prowess. As both teams enter the game with something to prove, this game could be a thrilling start to the 2024 FCS Championship playoffs.