Preseason Honors Highlight Montana State's Dominance
The Big Sky Conference unveiled its preseason awards, naming Eli Gillman of Montana as Offensive MVP and Caden Dowler of Montana State as Defensive MVP.
Gillman's 1,540 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns from last season helped secure the offensive honor, while Dowler's 91 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and six interceptions earned him the defensive award.
The preseason All-Conference team features 14 selections from Montana State, the most of any program, including Taco Dowler who collected three individual honors.
UC Davis linebacker Rex Connors was recognized as the 2025 Preseason Defensive Player of the Year.
Coaches and media polls predict the Montana State Bobcats as the team to beat in 2026, reinforcing their favored status heading into the season.
The 2026 Big Sky Football Kickoff Weekend will stream live on ESPN+ and on select Scripps Sports stations, featuring interviews with representatives from all 13 football programs.