FARGO — Fans in the North Dakota State at Montana State second round Division I FCS playoff game on Saturday may want to keep an eye on the forecast. The expected high temperature at outdoor Bobcat Stadium is 37 degrees. That could be a significant factor.
The Bison will also be focused on other numbers, such as the five MSU backs averaging at least 8.0 yards per carry. This kind of rushing power is unusual at this time of the year. In addition, the Bobcats rush an impressive 293.4 yards per game, putting them in the second spot in the FCS.
NDSU head coach Matt Entz stated, “It’s a significant run game and great continuity up front. They’re really sound, really fundamental in what they do.”
The quarterbacks and running backs of the Bobcats are impressive, with leading rusher Julius Davis having 718 yards and averaging 6.9 yards per carry. Quarterbacks Sean Chambers and Tommy Mellott combine to average over 100 yards per game.
Kickoff time is set for 2 p.m. (CST). The game can only be seen on the streaming service ESPN-Plus, as ESPN holds the exclusive rights to air the FCS playoffs. The winner will advance to face either Sacramento State or the University of South Dakota.
If No. 6 MSU and No. 3 USD win, the quarterfinal will be hosted by USD. On the other hand, if NDSU and Sacramento win, the hosting decision may be based on the program with the higher bid as both are unseeded.
Exciting newcomer Julius Davis transferred from the University of Wisconsin prior to the season and has made a significant impact on the Bobcats. His FBS offers from Northern Illinois and Wyoming, and FCS offer from North Dakota indicate his potential. However, it was his commitment to Wisconsin that kept him off the radar of NDSU during high school recruiting, according to Coach Entz.
The Bison were well represented in the all-Missouri Valley Football Conference teams that were released Monday. Senior Hunter Brozio was the first team fullback and long snapper.
Coach Entz highlighted the unique challenge of players having the dual role of an every-down player and special teams contributor.
The all-conference team featured seven first-teamers including right guard Jake Kubas and left tackle Jalen Sundell. Quarterback Cam Miller finished third in the balloting for league Offensive Player of the Year. The team was selected by league coaches, sports information directors and media.
Reference
Alex Martin is your guide to the global phenomenon of football. With a focus on international leagues and tournaments, he provides match commentary, player interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of football.
Denial of responsibility! Being Sportsfan is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72931262/usa_today_21973134.0.jpg "Stay Updated on Wisconsin Badgers Transfer Portal Movements for 2023-2024 Season")
