North Dakota State Claims Tenth FCS Title in Frisco Finale, Defeating Montana State 35-32
FRISCO, Texas – In a thrilling showdown that marked the end of an era, North Dakota State University (NDSU) secured their tenth Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) national title, defeating Montana State University 35-32 in a hard-fought battle at Toyota Stadium. This victory, NDSU’s first championship since 2020, also served as a repeat performance against the Bobcats, whom they defeated for the title three years prior. The game, a back-and-forth affair showcasing high-powered offenses and exceptional quarterback play, served as a fitting finale to the FCS’s 15-year tenure in Frisco, a city that has become synonymous with Bison dominance.
The first half belonged to the Bison, who stormed to a 21-3 lead, fueled by two rushing touchdowns from quarterback Cam Miller, including a spectacular 64-yard scamper. Miller’s early dominance set the tone for NDSU, who controlled the clock and the scoreboard, leaving Montana State searching for answers. However, the Bobcats, entering the game with a perfect 15-0 record, refused to go down quietly. They emerged from the halftime break with renewed vigor, scoring two touchdowns and a two-point conversion in the third quarter to cut the Bison lead to just three points, setting the stage for a dramatic final frame.
The fourth quarter became a showcase of quarterback brilliance. Both Walter Payton Award winner Tommy Mellott of Montana State and Payton Award finalist Cam Miller of NDSU demonstrated why they were considered among the best in the nation. Mellott orchestrated a furious comeback attempt, accounting for two touchdowns, one rushing and one passing. Miller, however, remained undeterred, responding with a touchdown pass of his own. The decisive blow came with just 2:39 remaining, courtesy of Jerry Rice Award winner, CharMar Brown, who punched in a rushing touchdown to seal the victory for the Bison.
The offensive fireworks displayed by both teams lived up to the pre-game hype. Ranked amongst the nation’s top scoring offenses, both NDSU and Montana State put on an offensive clinic. The combined 67 points easily surpassed the pre-game over/under of 58.5, demonstrating the potency of both attacks. Montana State punted just twice, while NDSU punted four times. The Bobcats showcased their aggressive play-calling, opting to go for it on fourth down twice, converting once and settling for a field goal after a lengthy 17-play drive in the second quarter.
Statistically, the game was remarkably even. North Dakota State edged Montana State in total yards, 401 to 393. Both teams displayed a balanced offensive approach. NDSU tallied 202 rushing yards and 199 passing yards, while Montana State recorded 198 rushing yards and 195 passing yards. Remarkably, neither team committed a turnover, showcasing the efficiency and ball security of both offenses. However, penalties played a significant role, with NDSU committing nine compared to Montana State’s two.
This championship game signified not just the end of the season but also the conclusion of an era. The FCS Championship game will relocate to Nashville next year, bringing to a close a 15-year run in Frisco. Frisco has witnessed the remarkable rise of North Dakota State, a program that has claimed ten national titles during this period. The city has also served as the backdrop for the burgeoning rivalry between Cam Miller and Tommy Mellott, with Miller emerging victorious in both their freshman and senior championship matchups. As both programs look to the future, they face the inevitable transition of replacing key players. NDSU’s Cam Miller and Montana State’s offensive lineman Marcus Wehr are set to showcase their talents in the 2025 Shrine Bowl, while Tommy Mellott concludes his collegiate career. The 2024 FCS Championship game in Frisco was a memorable chapter in the history of both programs, marking the end of an era and solidifying the legacies of these talented players.
The game’s outcome underscored the enduring strength of North Dakota State’s program, which has become synonymous with FCS dominance. Their ability to reload year after year, despite losing key players to graduation or the NFL, is a testament to their coaching staff and their commitment to recruiting top-tier talent. While Montana State’s undefeated season came to a heartbreaking end, their performance throughout the year, culminating in their appearance in the championship game, solidifies their position as a force to be reckoned with in the FCS.
Looking ahead, both programs face significant transitions. The departure of key players like Miller and Mellott will necessitate the development of new leaders and playmakers. However, the experience gained by younger players during this season’s playoff run will prove invaluable as they step into larger roles. The recruiting battles between these two programs will undoubtedly intensify as they seek to replenish their rosters and maintain their positions among the elite of the FCS.
The move of the FCS Championship game to Nashville presents both opportunities and challenges. For North Dakota State, it represents a chance to establish their dominance on a new stage and expand their national footprint. For Montana State, it offers a fresh start and the opportunity to build upon the momentum they’ve generated in recent years. While Frisco will always hold a special place in the history of the FCS, Nashville presents a vibrant new backdrop for the culmination of future championship journeys.
Finally, the individual performances of players like Cam Miller, Tommy Mellott, and CharMar Brown deserve special recognition. Their dedication, skill, and leadership have not only elevated their respective programs but also enriched the landscape of FCS football. As they move on to the next chapters of their careers, their contributions to the game will be remembered and celebrated. The 2024 FCS Championship game in Frisco served as a fitting tribute to their talents and a reminder of the exciting future that lies ahead for FCS football.
