Can the Idaho Vandals get revenge on the Montana State Bobcats after suffering an embarrassing 38-7 loss earlier in the year?
Our Idaho vs. Montana State prediction breaks down everything you need to know — from the latest betting odds to what’s at stake for both teams as they navigate the FCS quarterfinals.
Idaho vs. Montana State FCS Quarterfinals Betting Preview
All Idaho vs. Montana State odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024.
- Spread
Montana State -13.5 - Moneyline
Montana State -500, Idaho +380 - Over/Under
56.5 points - Game Time
9 p.m. ET, Friday, Dec. 13 - Location
Bobcat Stadium | Bozeman, Mont. - Predicted Weather at Kick
30 degrees, 4 mph winds, partly cloudy - How To Watch
ESPN/ESPN+
Idaho has covered as an underdog in two of three games this year, both against FBS programs in the Oregon Ducks and Wyoming Cowboys. The one the Vandals didn’t cover? +8.5 vs. Montana State.
The spread is a lot larger this time, but does it matter? Likely not, given Idaho is 1-4 ATS on the road this year.
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Additionally, the Bobcats are 3-2 ATS in their last five, continuing to point the arrow in their direction.
The under is a bit of a different story. Montana State has helped push the total over in three of its past six home games. As for Idaho, it’s been a year of trends: two unders, three overs, two unders, three overs, and three unders. Surely the program is due for an over?
Prediction for Idaho vs. Montana State
Montana State’s first encounter with Idaho this season wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. The Bobcats thoroughly dominated, building a 31-0 lead before cruising to a 38-7 victory.
Their explosive ground game amassed 360 yards while controlling possession for over 37 minutes, suffocating Idaho’s chances. The Vandals are healthier this time, with quarterback Jack Layne back under center and key weapons like Jordan Dwyer and Mark Hamper ready to contribute.
However, even with their offense operating at a high level, Idaho faces a daunting task trying to conquer Bozeman’s hostile environment, where the Bobcats are playing with a clear focus on a national title.
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Led by Tommy Mellott, who’s been electrifying in the playoffs, Montana State continues to dominate, ranking second nationally in rushing yards per game. With Mellott’s dual-threat abilities and a punishing 1-2 punch of Scottre Humphrey and Adam Jones, the Bobcats have shown they can wear down any defense.
Coupled with a defense allowing just 3.5 yards per carry and an elite pass rush led by Brody Grebe, the Bobcats are poised to repeat their earlier success and punch their ticket to the semifinals.
Prediction: Montana State 45, Idaho 17
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