South Dakota State Holds off Montana State in Nail-Biting FCS Showdown
BROOKINGS, S.D. — In a thrilling FCS showdown, top-ranked and defending national champion South Dakota State narrowly defeated No. 3 Montana State with a final score of 20-16. The game came down to the wire, with controversy swirling around a potential game-winning touchdown that was ultimately ruled incomplete.
The spotlight fell on Sean Chambers and Clevan Thomas Jr. during the final moments of the game. Chambers connected with Thomas for what initially appeared to be a touchdown as time expired. However, after an official review, it was determined that Thomas did not have a foot down inbounds in the back of the end zone. With one second back on the clock, Montana State had one final play, but Chambers’ Hail Mary attempt fell incomplete.
Both teams showcased impressive performances, particularly on the defensive end. Montana State’s defense held South Dakota State to a mere 17 yards in the first quarter and kept them scoreless in the first half. Chambers gave the Bobcats a 7-0 lead in the first quarter with a 2-yard touchdown run, followed by Brendan Hall’s 27-yard field goal in the second quarter, securing a 10-0 halftime lead for Montana State.
However, South Dakota State found their rhythm in the second half. Quarterback Mark Gronowski led the team on a seven-play, 75-yard drive, finishing with a 20-yard touchdown run. The Jackrabbits took the lead early in the fourth quarter when Gronowski connected with Zach Heins for a 16-yard touchdown.
Chambers, who stepped up for the injured starting quarterback Tommy Mellott in the second half, threw an interception at a crucial moment, allowing South Dakota State to gain momentum. Nevertheless, the Bobcat defense responded by forcing a three-and-out and even blocking a punt. Montana State capitalized on the opportunity with a field goal from Hall to tie the game at 13 with 10:15 left to play.
The intense back-and-forth continued, with both teams struggling to gain an edge. The Bobcats managed to take a 16-13 lead with just over two minutes remaining after settling for another short field goal from Hall. However, South Dakota State quickly regained control as Gronowski connected with Grahm Goering for a 40-yard gain, followed by a 35-yard touchdown pass to Griffin Wilde.
The turning point of the game came when officials overturned the initial ruling of Thomas’ touchdown and penalized the Montana State sideline with an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. With the final play starting from the 39-yard line, Chambers, under pressure, failed to get the ball into the end zone.
A standout performer for Montana State was quarterback Sean Chambers, who nearly led the team to an upset victory. Despite a modest passing line, Chambers recorded 90 rushing yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. Linebacker Danny Uliulakepa also made a significant impact on the defensive end, sacking Gronowski and forcing a fumble that led to Montana State’s first touchdown.
The game’s crucial statistic was Gronowski’s 184 passing yards, which ultimately proved to be the difference-maker. Although both teams heavily relied on their ground attacks, Gronowski’s timely plays in the passing game, particularly during South Dakota State’s final offensive possession, made all the difference.
Looking ahead, Montana State (2-1) will return home for their final non-conference game of the season against Stetson from the Pioneer Football League. The game is scheduled for September 16 at 1 p.m. inside Bobcat Stadium.