The Butler Bulldogs fell to the Montana State Bobcats by a 51-24 margin in their inaugural meeting, marking the Bulldogs' second straight defeat and pushing the Bobcats to a 2-0 start in the 2026 season.
First Half Surge
Early momentum swung in Montana State's favor when kicker Myles Sansted converted a 45-yard field goal, and a 100-yard kickoff return by junior wide receiver Jabez Woods set up a quick touchdown, giving the Bobcats a 10-3 lead before Butler could answer with Beck Janki's 34-yard field goal.
The Bobcats continued to build the advantage with a series of efficient drives: Adam Jones punched in a one-yard touchdown, followed by quarterback Justin Lamson's own one-yard rush, and a 29-yard reception by Dane Steel, all contributing to a 27-3 halftime lead. Taco Dowler added three catches for 74 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown that stretched the margin to 34-3.
Butler responded in the third quarter, as junior quarterback Gabe Passini connected with Chet Yardley on a 27-yard pass and set up Beck Janki's field goal, narrowing the gap. A three-yard touchdown pass from Passini to wide receiver Nick Munson cut the deficit, and fifth-year senior Desmin Jackson answered with a one-yard rushing score to even the game at 20-20.
Fourth Quarter Finale
The fourth quarter saw a flurry of activity as Jared White powered in a two-yard touchdown run, while Jabez Woods hauled in a 35-yard pass from Patrick Duchien. The decisive moment arrived when Jarrin Alley orchestrated a 75-yard drive that culminated in a one-yard touchdown run, sealing a 51-24 victory.
With the win securing a 2-0 record, the Bobcats now turn their attention to a scheduled showdown against Franklin College on September 12, 2026, while the Bulldogs, now 1-1, look to rebound in upcoming competition.