Big Sky Now

Host Luke Schmit went to the 2026 Big Sky Conference Football Media Day in Spokane, Washington. Luke got a chance to sit down with Bobcat standouts Caden and Taco Dowler and head coach Brent Vigen fresh off Montana State's national championship season, talking legacy, loyalty and what it takes to defend a title.

Caden and Taco Dowler talk about what it means to represent the state that raised them, and why the in-state pipeline keeps producing impact players for the Bobcats. They open up about resisting transfer portal money to stay loyal to a program and a community, and how one of them built a seasoning brand on the side while staying grounded in Bozeman. Both players talk candidly about the surreal aftermath of winning a national championship - the nonstop phone notifications, a same-day surgery, and the slow process of coming down from that high.

MSU Head Coach Vigen reflects on what the title meant for the Big Sky's national standing and what it takes to chase it again, while the Dowler brothers describe the pressure and joy of being recognized everywhere they go in a state where everybody knows your name.

Watch the Big Sky Now podcast's panel discussion about their time in Spokane for Big Sky Conference's Media Day: https://youtu.be/181QjRjRo1M

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

The Big Sky football season is almost here, and our crew is breaking down everything they learned from the 2026 Big Sky Conference Football Media Day in Spokane, Washington.

Host Luke Schmit is joined by Daily Inter Lake Sports Editor Fritz Neighbor, Coeur d'Alene Press Sports Editor Mark Nelke and Columbia Basin Herald Sports Reporter Mike Maynard after a full day of interviews with coaches and players from across the conference. The panel discusses Montana's new era under Bobby Hauck's successor, Montana State's continued dominance, Idaho's offseason improvements, Eastern Washington's optimism, Idaho State's potential as a dark horse, Portland State's new coaching staff, Northern Arizona's expectations and what the additions of Southern Utah and Utah Tech could mean for the conference.

The group also shares behind-the-scenes impressions from conversations with Brent Vigen, Bobby Hauck's successor, Aaron Best, Jason Eck's replacement, Cody Hawkins and other coaches while discussing quarterback battles, transfer portal additions, offensive line depth, preseason favorites, breakout players and early-season games that could shape the Big Sky title race.

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

Bobby Hauck has officially retired as head coach of Montana football, and on this episode of Big Sky Now, the Daily Inter Lake panel breaks down what it means for the Griz, the Big Sky Conference, and the future of FCS football.

Host Luke Schmit is joined by Daily Inter Lake's sports editor Fritz Neighbor and reporter Jon Allen to unpack the timing and nuance behind Hauck’s decision — from his growing frustration with the transfer portal and NIL era to the ripple effects of signing day, recruiting cycles, and roster stability. The panel reflects on Hauck’s legacy as the winningest coach in Big Sky Conference history, his two tenures in Missoula, and why this retirement felt sudden — yet inevitable.

The discussion also turns to Bobby Kennedy stepping in as Montana’s next head coach, how the Griz are positioned heading into spring ball, and what this change could mean for player retention and competitiveness in 2026. Plus, the crew touches on Big Sky offseason storylines, returning quarterback-receiver duos across the state, and the growing national footprint of Big Sky players at the professional level.

Read Fritz's article about Coach Hauck's retirement on dailyinterlake.com.

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

Montana State is your FCS National Champion! On this episode of Big Sky Now, Luke Schmit is joined by Fritz Neighbor, Jon Allen, and Mark Nelke to break down an unforgettable overtime victory over Illinois State in Nashville — the Bobcats’ first national title in 41 years.

The panel dives into the turning points that defined the game, including Illinois State’s second-half control, the blocked field goal that forced overtime, and the decisive fourth-down touchdown that sealed a 35–34 win. They also discuss what this championship means for Montana State, the Big Sky Conference, and a program that finally finished the job on the sport’s biggest stage.

The episode closes with reflections on the 2025 season, favorite moments from around the Big Sky, and what lies ahead as the transfer portal era reshapes the conference.

A huge thank you to Vann Law Firm for sponsoring our Championship coverage of Big Sky Now podcast. Specializing in criminal defense, personal injury, and estate planning, Vann Law Firm provides expert legal support across the Flathead Valley. Their team is committed to clear communication and personalized guidance, helping clients navigate legal challenges with confidence. For a free consultation, call 406-826-6529 or visit https://vannlawfirm.com/

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

Montana State is back on top of the FCS!

Host Luke Schmit is joined by Daily Inter Lake sports reporter Jon Allen to immediately break down Montana State’s FCS National Championship victory over Illinois State in Nashville on Monday night. The Bobcats captured their second national title in program history, surviving a dramatic overtime battle that tested their discipline, depth, and resilience.

Luke and Jon analyze how Montana State jumped out early, then weathered a relentless second-half push from Illinois State, which outgained the Bobcats in total yards, first downs, rushing yards, and time of possession. Despite 14 penalties and extended stretches without the ball, Montana State made the biggest plays when it mattered most - including a fourth-down touchdown and a blocked kick in overtime to seal the championship.

The conversation highlights Justin Lamson’s legacy-defining performance, clutch moments from Taco Dowler, and how Montana State’s special teams once again proved decisive on the national stage. The duo also discusses Illinois State’s halftime adjustments, standout Redbirds performances, and why this game swung on execution rather than statistics.

Finally, the episode puts the win into historical context: Montana State ends the season on a 14-game winning streak and delivers the Big Sky Conference its first FCS national championship since Eastern Washington in 2010.

A huge thank you to Vann Law Firm for sponsoring our Championship coverage of Big Sky Now podcast. Specializing in criminal defense, personal injury, and estate planning, Vann Law Firm provides expert legal support across the Flathead Valley. Their team is committed to clear communication and personalized guidance, helping clients navigate legal challenges with confidence. For a free consultation, call 406-826-6529 or visit https://vannlawfirm.com/

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

Montana State is one win away from an FCS national championship, and Big Sky Now is on the ground in Nashville. Host Luke Schmit is joined by Daily Inter Lake sports editor Fritz Neighbor, who joins from Tennessee ahead of the title matchup between the Bobcats and Illinois State.

Fritz breaks down Montana State’s preparation, the fan presence taking over Broadway, and what he learned from media day interviews with Bobcats quarterback Justin Lamson and other key players. The conversation also dives into head coach Brent Vigen’s mindset, how Montana State has reloaded since last season’s championship loss, and why a fast start will be critical against a battle-tested Illinois State team.

The Redbirds arrive riding a dominant road run out of the Missouri Valley Football Conference, setting up a high-stakes showdown between two of the FCS’s toughest programs. Fritz also shares insight on Illinois State’s roster, the national championship atmosphere at FirstBank Stadium, and kickoff details as the Big Sky looks to claim its first FCS title since 2010.

Kickoff is set for 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time in Nashville. Watch our full preview and predictions ahead of the game!

A huge thank you to Vann Law Firm for sponsoring our Championship coverage of Big Sky Now podcast. Specializing in criminal defense, personal injury, and estate planning, Vann Law Firm provides expert legal support across the Flathead Valley. Their team is committed to clear communication and personalized guidance, helping clients navigate legal challenges with confidence. For a free consultation, call 406-826-6529 or visit https://vannlawfirm.com/

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

The FCS National Championship is finally here, and the Big Sky Now panel breaks down everything surrounding Montana State vs Illinois State in Nashville. Host Luke Schmit is joined by Fritz Neighbor, Jon Allen, Mike Maynard, and Mark Nelke to analyze the key matchups, coaching storylines, and historical stakes facing both programs.

The discussion centers on Montana State’s dominant rushing attack, elite line play, and championship experience versus an Illinois State team that has powered through four straight playoff road wins. The panel examines whether the Redbirds’ veteran offense and physical run game can neutralize the Bobcats early, how quarterback play could swing momentum, and why trench play may ultimately decide the title.

With Montana State chasing its first national championship win since 1984 and Illinois State seeking the first FCS title in program history, the crew delivers score predictions, matchup insights, and what each team must do in the opening quarter to lift the trophy. Plus, Fritz shares what it means to cover the championship game live from Nashville.

A huge thank you to Vann Law Firm and M&C Tires for sponsoring this special postseason coverage of Big Sky Now podcast. Specializing in criminal defense, personal injury, and estate planning, Vann Law Firm provides expert legal support across the Flathead Valley. Their team is committed to clear communication and personalized guidance, helping clients navigate legal challenges with confidence. For a free consultation, call 406-826-6529 or visit https://vannlawfirm.com/

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

On this episode of Big Sky Now, Luke Schmit sits down with Ortt to break down Montana State’s dominant postseason run - including the Cat–Griz showdown in Bozeman, the Bobcats’ continued 13-game winning streak, and what separates this year’s team from last season’s national championship squad. Ortt shares what it was like watching the rivalry game as a fan, how MSU responded after losing key leaders from last year, and why the program’s culture hasn’t wavered under Coach Brent Vigen.

The conversation also dives into Illinois State’s improbable playoff run, including their road win over North Dakota State and why the Redbirds are far tougher than the casual fan might expect. Ortt explains how Illinois State controls games, why Missouri Valley teams are built for playoff football, and what Montana State must do to finish the job in Nashville.

From championship preparation and leadership growth to what fans should truly soak in during a historic season, this episode offers a rare, inside look at Montana State football on the brink of an FCS national title.

A huge thank you to Vann Law Firm and M&C Tires for sponsoring this special postseason coverage of Big Sky Now podcast. Specializing in criminal defense, personal injury, and estate planning, Vann Law Firm provides expert legal support across the Flathead Valley. Their team is committed to clear communication and personalized guidance, helping clients navigate legal challenges with confidence. For a free consultation, call 406-826-6529 or visit https://vannlawfirm.com/

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

The Big Sky Now panel breaks down a pivotal weekend of Big Sky Conference playoff football, including Montana’s road loss to Montana State in Bozeman and Illinois State’s postseason win that sends the Redbirds deeper into the bracket. The crew reacts to what went wrong for the Griz against the Cats, how Montana State controlled the matchup at home, and what Illinois State’s advancement means for the conference on the national stage.

Host Luke Schmit and the panel also discuss the atmosphere in Bozeman, Fritz being boots on the ground at the SuperBrawl, and how the remaining Big Sky teams stack up as the playoffs continue.

A huge thank you to Vann Law Firm and M&C Tires for sponsoring this special postseason coverage of Big Sky Now podcast. Specializing in criminal defense, personal injury, and estate planning, Vann Law Firm provides expert legal support across the Flathead Valley. Their team is committed to clear communication and personalized guidance, helping clients navigate legal challenges with confidence. For a free consultation, call 406-826-6529 or visit https://vannlawfirm.com/

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!

This week on Big Sky Now, host Luke Schmit and the panel break down a massive quarterfinal weekend in the 2025 FCS Playoffs for Big Sky Conference teams. The Montana Grizzlies knocked off the South Dakota State Jackrabbits 50–29 behind big performances from their offense, while Montana State topped Stephen F. Austin 44–28. In a surprise upset, Illinois State knocked off UC Davis 42–31.

In a first-ever playoff meeting - Montana faces Montana State in Bozeman this weekend for the Super Brawl! The crew breaks down what both Big Sky teams need to do next to keep their national title hopes alive. If you’re tracking the postseason, rankings, and what comes next - this episode will break all the Big Sky action for you.

A huge thank you to Vann Law Firm in Kalispell for sponsoring this special postseason coverage of Big Sky Now podcast. Specializing in criminal defense, personal injury, and estate planning, they provide expert legal support across the Flathead Valley. Their team is committed to clear communication and personalized guidance, helping clients navigate legal challenges with confidence. For a free consultation, call 406-826-6529 or visit https://vannlawfirm.com/

Thank you to our headline sponsor M&C Tire for their continued support of Big Sky Now! Serving the Flathead Valley since 1979, M&C is your total tire dealer with trusted brands, all at affordable prices. From farm trucks to hybrids, their certified technicians handle it all with unmatched hometown service. Stop by in 1271 N. Meridian Road in Kalispell, call (406) 752-9662, or visit https://www.mandctire.com/ to keep your ride rolling.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Would you rather watch this episode? Check out Daily Inter Lake's YouTube page! Please like and subscribe to keep up to date with all things Big Sky Conference. 

Email us any questions you may have at [email protected] - you may be featured in our next discussion!