The Montana Grizzlies football team entered the final stretch of the season with a 5-3 overall record (3-2 in the Big Sky) after a 42-35 loss to the Idaho Vandals. While the defeat marks the program’s second straight loss, the Griz still have a realistic path to the FCS playoffs.
What the Idaho loss means for playoff positioning
“We all know what it takes to win in the FCS playoffs,” said longtime Griz analyst Riley Corcoran. “It’s getting multiple home games, so this loss is devastating in that aspect.” He added that the dream of earning a top‑four seed—guaranteeing home games through the early rounds—has been pushed out the window.
Remaining regular‑season schedule
- Eastern Washington at home – Oct. 31
- Portland State at home – Nov. 7
- Idaho State at home – Nov. 14
- Montana State in Bozeman – Nov. 21
All four contests are crucial, but the final matchup against rival Montana State will likely decide the Griz’s postseason fate.
Playoff scenarios explained
If the Grizzlies win every remaining game, Corcoran believes they can still earn a top‑8 seed, which would provide at least one home game in the first round. However, the margin for error narrows quickly.
Should the Griz drop one of the three home games—against Eastern Washington, Portland State, or Idaho State—they would need to win the rivalry game in Bozeman to stay alive. Corcoran noted, “If they lose any of those three games where they are double‑digit favorites, they will be headed to Bozeman playing for their playoff lives. That’s something we never thought we would say three weeks ago.”
In a simplified view, the possible outcomes are:
- Win all four games – likely a top‑8 seed.
- Finish 3‑1 with the loss to Montana State – seed somewhere between 9 and 16.
- Finish 3‑1 with the loss to any other opponent – also a seed in the 9‑16 range, though less certain.
- Lose one of the first three games – must win the Montana State game to earn a playoff berth.
What fans can expect
The Grizzlies’ supporters remain hopeful. “The sky is red, but it has not completely fallen yet,” Corcoran said, urging the team and coaching staff to solidify their performance in the final stretch. With home‑field advantage for three of the four remaining games, the Griz have a chance to rebound and secure a postseason spot.
Local fans are encouraged to attend the upcoming home games, especially the rivalry clash in Bozeman, which could determine whether Montana’s season ends with a playoff run or a disappointing finish.
Original reporting: NewsTalk KGVO 1290 (Townsquare) — read the source article.
