Griz Set to Open Against Missouri State

Montana's Veteran-Led Football Squad Faces Road Test

Preseason Expectations Are High for the Griz

The Montana Grizzlies are set to open their 2023 football season on the road against the Missouri State Bears. The Griz are coming off an 8-5 campaign, which included a berth in the FCS Playoffs.

Montana is led by an experienced group of players, including quarterback Lucas Johnson and wide receiver Malik Flowers. Johnson is a senior and the reigning Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year. Flowers is a junior and one of the top wide receivers in the FCS.

The Griz are also expected to be strong on defense, with eight starters returning from last year's squad. Led by defensive end Patrick O'Connell, the Griz defense should be one of the best in the FCS.

Missouri State Looking to Improve on Last Year's Record

Missouri State is coming off a 5-6 season in 2022. The Bears are led by new head coach Bobby Petrino, who is in his second stint with the program. Petrino is known for his high-scoring offenses, and he will look to implement that style of play at Missouri State.

The Bears have a number of talented players on offense, including quarterback Jason Shelley and wide receiver Jaden Johnson. Shelley is a transfer from Utah, and Johnson is a junior college All-American.

Missouri State's defense will be led by linebacker Tyrel Alexander. Alexander is a senior and one of the top defenders in the FCS.

Keys to the Game

The key to the game for Montana will be to control the tempo and keep the Missouri State offense off the field. The Griz also need to be efficient on offense and take advantage of their opportunities.

For Missouri State, the key will be to score early and often. The Bears also need to force turnovers and create some chaos for the Montana offense.

Prediction

Montana is the favorite in this game, but Missouri State is a dangerous team, especially at home.

I predict that Montana will win a close game, 24-21.