Redbirds Travel to Nashville for 2nd National Championship Appearance in the last 12 years

Image Courtesy of Illinois State Athletics

NORMAL, Ill. -Illinois State punched its ticket to Nashville in emphatic fashion, rolling to a 30–14 victory in the FCS semifinals over Villanova. After truly embracing the road warrior mentality and winning 4 games on the road, the Redbirds have done everything necessary to earn a spot in the Division I FCS National Championship game.

Illinois State arrives in Nashville riding the momentum of a postseason run that has showcased its ability to win in multiple ways. The Redbirds have leaned on a disciplined, hard-nosed approach, pairing a potent rushing attack with a defense that takes pride in controlling the line of scrimmage. Throughout the playoffs, Illinois State has proven comfortable in close games, showing poise late and an ability to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes.

Montana State, meanwhile, brings its own brand of physical football, one that has been tested all season long in the Big Sky Conference. The Bobcats’ identity starts up front, where a powerful offensive line sets the tone for a ground game that wears defenses down. A rushing attack that features 2 backs who have each rushed for over 1000 yards on the season.

Montana State is coming off a dominant victory over in-state rival, Montana, 48-23, in the FCS Semifinal game. ISU is riding a 4-game winning streak, with all 4 on the road. The unseeded Redbirds not only had the largest semifinal win by a road team in the last 30 seasons, but they are also the first FCS team to win 4 playoff games on the road to advance to the National Championship game.

The Bobcats of Montana State (13-2, 8-0 Big Sky) will meet the Redbirds of Illinois State (12-4, 6-3 MVFC) down in Nashville, TN, at FirstBank Stadium. This is the first time since 2009 that the FCS National Championship won’t be played in Frisco, TX. Kickoff from Nashville is set for 6:30 pm on January 5th, 2026.