The Idaho Vandals (16-6-2) are headed back to the FCS quarterfinals for the first time since 2016 after defeating Eastern Washington 31-28 in the second round of the playoffs on Saturday. The Vandals will face No. 1 seed Montana State (11-1) in the quarterfinals on Saturday, December 10th.
The Vandals have been one of the hottest teams in the FCS since the middle of October. They have won their last six games by an average of 18.3 points per game. The Vandals' offense has been led by quarterback Gevani McCoy, who has thrown for 2,785 yards and 29 touchdowns this season. The defense has also been impressive, allowing just 19.6 points per game.
The Bobcats are the No. 1 seed in the FCS playoffs for a reason. They have won 11 straight games and have not allowed more than 17 points in any game during that stretch. The Bobcats are led by quarterback Tommy Mellott, who has thrown for 2,465 yards and 29 touchdowns this season. The defense is also one of the best in the FCS, led by linebacker Troy Andersen, who has 135 tackles and 10 sacks this season.
The key to the game for Idaho will be to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. The Vandals need to be able to run the ball effectively to keep the Bobcats' defense honest. They also need to protect McCoy and give him time to find his receivers downfield. On the defensive side of the ball, the Vandals need to generate pressure on Mellott and force him into mistakes. They also need to limit the Bobcats' running attack, which is led by running back Isaiah Ifanse.
The Vandals are a dangerous team, but they will face their toughest test of the season against Montana State. The Bobcats are a well-rounded team with no obvious weaknesses. The Vandals will need to play their best game of the season to have a chance to win. However, if they can control the line of scrimmage and force Mellott into mistakes, they have a chance to pull off the upset.
The Vandals' run to the FCS quarterfinals has been an impressive one. They have overcome adversity and played with a lot of heart. They will need to continue to play at a high level to have a chance to beat Montana State. The game is sure to be a close one, and it could go either way.
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