The Montana Grizzlies will face the Idaho State Bengals in a nationally televised game on ESPN networks on November 14, 2026. This matchup is part of a historic five-game deal between the Big Sky Conference and ESPN, bringing significant exposure to the league. The game will kick off at 8:30 p.m. and continues Montana's trend of successful appearances on national television. So far, Montana has had a strong track record on ESPN, boasting a 10-7 record in broadcasts since 2015. The Grizzlies' games have garnered impressive viewership, with an average nearing 900,000 viewers.

By the Numbers
  • Montana has a 10-7 overall record in ESPN linear broadcasts since 2015.
  • An average of nearly 900,000 viewers has tuned in for the 17 nationally televised games.
State of Play
  • The upcoming Griz/Bengals game is part of a five-game broadcasting deal with ESPN, a record for the Big Sky Conference.
  • Montana has a strong home record of 8-1 on ESPN networks during the same period.
What's Next

Montana's complete schedule and kickoff times for the season will be revealed soon, including their first game against Southern Utah on August 29. The Grizzlies will also host Drake and Utah Tech in nonconference games before diving into the Big Sky schedule. These matchups are poised to attract significant attention as they further the competitive landscape in the league.

Bottom Line

The Grizzlies' ongoing success on national broadcasts highlights both their program strength and the significance of their upcoming primetime appearances. With the increase in televised games, fans can anticipate heightened engagement and excitement around Montana football, offering a valuable opportunity for growth and visibility within the college football landscape.