Bobcats Open Title Defense Without Talon
The Montana State Bobcats begin their 2026 football season as defending national champions, but will be without senior defensive tackle Talon Marsh and a
The Montana State Bobcats open their 2026 football season as reigning national champions for the first time since 1985. They will face Utah Tech in St. George tonight without senior defensive tackle Talon Marsh and a sophomore receiver, both dealing with injuries. Sophomore Josaiah Asuega is expected to start at nose tackle in place of Marsh. The team's roster, which you can view in full on our squad page, features 28 newcomers this season, including four transfers and 24 freshmen. Utah Tech's roster, by contrast, includes 58 newcomers.
Two Bobcat defensive backs, Caden Dowler and Takhari Carr, have each intercepted a pass against Utah Tech in their careers. Both picks came during the 2023 Gold Rush game in Bozeman.
Team History and Openers
Montana State has a mixed history in season openers following a national championship. The team won its opener in 1957 after the 1956 title and again in 1977 after the 1976 championship. However, the 1985 title defense began with a 46-28 loss to Portland State. The 1957 season was coach Tony Storti's final campaign, while 1977 was Sonny Holland's last year leading his alma mater.
First Play Trends
A look at the first offensive plays from each of head coach Brent Vigen's five seasons shows varied results.
| Season | Opponent | First Play | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | at Oregon | Justin Lamson 3-yard pass to Taco Dowler | Punt |
| 2024 | at New Mexico | Scottre Humphrey 2-yard rush | Fumble |
| 2023 | vs. Utah Tech | Lane Sumner 10-yard rush | Turnover on downs |
| 2022 | vs. McNeese | Tommy Mellott rush for no gain | Punt |
| 2021 | at Wyoming | Matthew McKay pass incomplete | Punt |
Weather and Connections
The projected game-time temperature is 97 degrees. According to the source, this would be the second-hottest kickoff temperature in school history. The hottest was 98 degrees, recorded against McNeese in 2022 and at SMU in 2013. You can check historical stats for more context on past games.
Montana State punter Colby Frokjer will see familiar faces on the Utah Tech sideline. He attended Roy High School in Utah with Trailblazers starting center Cade Draper. The two have been friends since grade school and were teammates in high school. Cade Draper earned Utah 5A Offensive Lineman of the Year, region offensive line MVP and first team Utah 5A all-state honors as a senior in 2024. Frokjer also previously played with Utah Tech freshman receiver Zay Draper. For the latest on team availability, including injuries, be sure to check our updates.
