Griz Football Season Preview: Griz Open Season Against Missouri State
A Look Ahead at the 2023 Season
Montana Grizzlies Kick Off Season in Springfield, Missouri
The Montana Grizzlies football team will open their 2023 season on the road against the Missouri State Bears on Saturday, September 2nd. The Grizzlies are coming off a 10-3 season in 2022, which included a berth in the FCS Playoffs. Missouri State finished 5-6 last season.
The Grizzlies are led by fifth-year head coach Bobby Hauck. Hauck has a 34-15 record at Montana and has led the Grizzlies to two FCS Playoff appearances in his four seasons.
The Grizzlies return 10 starters on offense and eight starters on defense from last season's team. Quarterback Lucas Johnson is back for his senior season after throwing for 2,810 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2022. Running back Nick Ostmo is also back after rushing for 1,013 yards and 12 touchdowns last season.
On defense, the Grizzlies are led by All-American linebacker Patrick O'Connell. O'Connell had 105 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks in 2022.
The Grizzlies are looking to make a run at the FCS Championship this season. They have a talented and experienced team that is capable of making a deep run in the playoffs.
Keys to the Game
- The Grizzlies need to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
- The Grizzlies need to win the turnover battle.
- The Grizzlies need to make big plays on special teams.
Prediction
The Grizzlies are a 7-point favorite over Missouri State. The Grizzlies have a more talented and experienced team, and they should be able to win this game on the road.
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