by Danny Waldo
When Montana State and Montana meet on November 19th in Bozeman they could once again be playing for more than just state bragging rights, as both programs have their sights set on deep runs into the FCS playoffs.
Every year, regardless of records, no sporting event energizes the fan bases of Montana State and Montana like the annual Brawl of the Wild, and lately, thanks to the success of both schools on the national stage, the energy has reached a fever pitch.
Following Montana State’s run of four consecutive victories in the series, their longest winning streak in decades, the Montana faithful was yearning for a return to the glory days entering last season’s Brawl of the Wild, and the Grizzlies did just that, spoiling Bobcat head coach Brent Vigen’s debut in the rivalry, handling the Bobcats 29-10. However, MSU had the last laugh, as their historic run through the playoffs led them to the national championship game, while UM could only sit home and watch after being bounced in the quarterfinals versus James Madison.
While there is plenty of football yet to be played in the 2022 season, Montana’s playoff hopes are currently on life support as the Grizzlies struggle through a two-game losing streak, meaning the 2022 version of the Brawl of the Wild may only serve as Montana’s chance to play spoiler to MSU’s seeding prospects in the FCS playoffs. Regardless, this year’s game, like those before it, will be full of passion and energy on both sides as they battle for the Great Divide Trophy.
Here are the top storylines for the 2022 Brawl of the Wild:
– Montana State head coach Brent Vigen will be looking to earn his first victory in the series
– Montana State will be looking to earn their first victory over the Grizzlies in Bozeman since 2019, and just their third home victory in the series in the past 15 years
– Montana could be looking to sneak into the playoffs by knocking off a Top 5 ranked opponent for the first time all season
– Montana State will be trying to secure a top seed in the FCS playoffs, and earn a First Round bye in the process
– Montana State could be playing for an outright or shared Big Sky Conference title for the first time since 2012
– Senior Day for Montana State
– Both programs will be playing for bragging rights and the right to house the Great Divide Trophy for the year.
Game Information:
Date: Saturday, November 19, 2022 – Bobcat Stadium
Kick-off: 12:00 PM
Broadcast: TV – MTN/ESPN+; Radio – Bobcat Radio Network •
