ST. GEORGE, Utah – Utah Tech’s debut in the Big Sky Conference ended in a 54-0 shutout Saturday night as Montana State stunned the Trailblazers at Greater Zion Stadium.
The Bobcats controlled the game from the opening quarter, scoring 10 points in the first quarter before adding 16 in the second to take a 26-0 lead going into halftime. Montana State continued to pull away from the Trailblazers after the break. The Bobcats scored 14 points in the third and fourth quarters.
Quarterback Justin Lamson led the Bobcats’ offense, completing 22 of 30 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown pass while also using his feet to rush in for a score. Backup quarterback Patrick Duchien added a touchdown pass, while running back Adam Jones scored on the ground.
Montana State’s defense was just as dominant as their offense. The Bobcats limited Utah Tech’s offense to a total of 227 yards with just 12 first downs while forcing three turnovers. Utah Tech quarterback Bronson Barben threw for two interceptions, including one that Montana State defensive back Brendan Ross returned 28 yards for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter.
Utah Tech struggled to find rhythm offensively. An early interception seemed to slow down the Trailblazers early momentum. Utah Tech only managed to rush for 58 yards on 26 carries and converted only four of 13 third-down opportunities.
Montana State continued to look like title contenders after ending last season on a 14-game win streak. This game ended in a statement victory from the Bobcats. It was their first official game back after winning in overtime against Illinois State in the Football Championship Subdivision title game. Montana State will look to continue this form when they host Butler on Saturday, Sept. 5.
For Utah Tech, this game was a difficult introduction entering the Big Sky Conference. The Trailblazers ended the 2025 season with a record of 2-10 and entered the 2026 season looking to establish themselves in a new conference. Utah Tech’s next outing will see them travel to No. 14 BYU on Saturday, Sept.5.
