GAME DAY INFORMATION
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DATE: Sept, 16, 2023
TIME: 3:00 PM EST |
LOCATION: Bobcat Stadium
Bozeman, Montana
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GAME DAY LINK
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LIVE STATS
LIVE VIDEO
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THE LEAD
Stetson Football arrives in Bozeman, Montana, riding a wave of momentum following thrilling victories, including an overtime nail-biter against St. Thomas (Fla) and a convincing win over Webber International. Yet, this Saturday's clash at 3:00 PM ET against the formidable #3 Montana State Bobcats promises to be their ultimate test, arguably the most challenging encounter since the program's revival in 2013.
INSIDE THE SERIES
This will be the first time in program history that the Hatters will play Montana State in football.
SCOUTING THE HATTERS (2-0, 0-0 PFL)
The Stetson Hatters have ignited the season with back-to-back victories, showcasing their prowess on both sides of the ball. In their season opener, they pulled off a thrilling overtime win against St. Thomas (Florida), prevailing 34-33. A week later, they continued their winning ways by defeating Webber International with a 38-28 triumph. Now, as they prepare to face their toughest challenge yet, the #3 Montana State Bobcats, the Hatters are determined to keep their winning streak alive.
One standout in the Hatters' offensive arsenal is Kaderris Roberts, who has rushed for an impressive 197 yards in just two games, averaging a solid 6.0 yards per carry and scoring three touchdowns. Graduate running back Devon Brewer made a significant impact in the previous game, amassing 62 yards on the ground and showcasing versatility with both a rushing and receiving touchdown.
Wide receiver Nazeviah Burris has been a key target, leading the team with seven catches for 187 yards and one touchdown reception. Gabe Atkin has also contributed significantly with nine receptions for 101 yards, including a touchdown in the most recent game. The Hatters have alternated between two quarterbacks, with Matt O'Connor and Brady Meitz each taking the field in both games. O'Connor leads the team with 21 completions on 32 attempts for 255 yards and two touchdowns, and both quarterbacks have added a rushing touchdown to their credit.
On the defensive front, Nicholas Lerew has been a tackling machine, leading the Hatters with an impressive 26 tackles. Diego Davis, who earned Pioneer Football League Player of the Week honors, is a force to be reckoned with, boasting 22 tackles, 4.0 tackles-for-loss, and 2.0 sacks. The secondary has also made its presence felt, with Jaylon Johnson and David Stubbs each recording an interception.
Linebacker CJ Davis has been a pivotal contributor, not only registering a field goal block but also accumulating 17 tackles this season. However, one of the most remarkable storylines this season has been the performance of freshman kicker Daniel Holbrook, who has displayed exceptional accuracy by going a perfect 3-3 on field goals, including a 47-yard long field goal, and a flawless 9-9 on PATs, sealing a game-winning extra point in the season opener.
SCOUTING THE BOBCATS (1-1, 0-0 BIG SKY)
Montana State's football team is on a mission of redemption following a heart-wrenching loss in an epic showdown against No. 1 South Dakota State. What appeared to be a game-winning pass from Sean Chambers to Clevan Thomas Jr. was overturned, leaving the third-ranked Bobcats with a bitter taste of defeat, as South Dakota State escaped with a narrow 20-16 victory.
The Bobcats, however, displayed resilience and determination, even amidst adversity. Playing without starting quarterback Tommy Mellott during the fourth quarter and missing key starters in receivers Ty McCullouch, Lonyatta Alexander Jr., and starting cornerback Miles Jackson, the Cats held a 16-13 lead with just 2:04 left on the clock. It was in those final moments that the Jackrabbits launched a two-play, 75-yard touchdown drive that snatched away victory from MSU's grasp.
One undeniable strength for the Bobcats this season has been their ground game, as they rushed for an impressive 211 yards. Through two games, they lead the FCS with an average of 306.0 rushing yards per game. However, they've encountered some challenges in the passing game, with a fourth-quarter interception and a 3-for-9 passing record during that crucial period.
The hallmark of Montana State's success remains its strong offensive line, which has yet to allow an opponent to sack a Bobcat quarterback this season. Defensively, they held SDSU to just 341 total yards in their last outing, showcasing their prowess on that side of the ball as well.
Key Stats to Watch:
- Montana State leads the Big Sky and FCS in rushing per game with an impressive 306.5 yards.
- Bobcat ball carriers have been tackled behind the line of scrimmage just six times this season, the fewest in the Big Sky.
- Several Bobcats have achieved over 200 rushing yards in a single game during their careers.
- Tommy Mellott's 125 rushing yards this season place him 14th in school history.
- Sean Chambers is on the verge of joining Montana State's career top 10 list for rushing touchdowns.
- Montana State's 407 rushing yards in their season opener marked the most since at least 1966.
Head Coach Brent Vigen, with 25 wins under his belt, stands as a rising star in MSU coaching history. His 25-6 start is the quickest by any Bobcat head coach, and his five playoff wins are the most among MSU coaches.
NEXT UP
The Hatters will return home for a brief one game homestand against the Butler Bulldogs at noon on Saturday, Sept. 23 at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium.
