Nashville, January 7, 2026

Montana State University achieved a historic victory in the FCS Championship, defeating Illinois State University 35–34 in a thrilling overtime match held at FirstBank Stadium, Nashville. This landmark game not only highlights Montana State’s first FCS title but also emphasizes Nashville’s growing significance in college football. The championship was broadcasted nationally, showcasing the competitive spirit of collegiate athletes and setting the stage for Nashville to host upcoming championships in the next two years.

Montana State Wins FCS Championship in Thrilling Overtime

Historic Game in Nashville Marks a New Era for FCS Football

Nashville, Tennessee – In an exciting culmination to the 2025 NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) season, Montana State University triumphed over Illinois State University with a narrow score of 35–34 in overtime. This gripping match, a landmark event for college football, took place on January 5, 2026, at FirstBank Stadium, making it the first time the FCS Championship was held in Nashville.

Showcasing the depth of talent in the FCS, this championship game was a testament to the fierce competition and the significant dedication from both teams. The victory represents a monumental achievement for Montana State, as it secure its first-ever FCS National Championship while also terminating Illinois State’s remarkable playoff run, which boasted a semifinal win over Villanova. This nail-biting finale signals not just the concluding chapter of a riveting season but also emphasizes the growing stature of FCS football in a vibrant city like Nashville.

Game Highlights and Key Moments

From the game’s inception, anticipation filled the air as fans tuned in nationally via ESPN and ESPN+. The kickoff at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time set the stage for a memorable evening. The dramatic finish came on a decisive fourth-down play in overtime, demonstrating resilience and strategic ingenuity from the Montana State squad. This victory not only cements their place in FCS history but also showcases how competitive college football has become across the nation.

Nashville: A Growing Hub for College Football

FirstBank Stadium, situated on the campus of Vanderbilt University, hosted the championship for the first time in a series that has seen Tennessee as a frequent host, marking the 14th instance since 2009. This event underlines Nashville’s commitment to becoming a pivotal center for FCS football, exciting fans and players alike and aligning with the city’s broader strategy to invest in sports and entertainment.

Future Prospects for the FCS Championship

With the successful execution of this year’s championship, Nashville has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2026 and 2027 FCS Championship Games. This development fosters an optimistic outlook for local businesses, including hospitality and tourism sectors, as the influx of fans and teams is likely to stimulate economic growth in the area. Such events reinforce the critical role that sports play in community development and engagement.

Conclusion

The thrilling conclusion of the 2025–26 FCS Championship reaffirmed the resilience and competitive spirit of collegiate athletes while shining a spotlight on Nashville as a premier location for sports. As local businesses and entrepreneurs address the economic opportunities created by such events, the importance of fostering an environment conducive to small-business innovation and investment becomes even clearer. Engaging with and supporting local enterprises will be essential for navigating Austin’s economic landscape and furthering community collaboration in the realm of sports and beyond.

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