One thing about Illinois State under coach Brock Spack is that they are going to be assignment sound and disciplined at the point of attack on both sides of the ball. Montana State is an explosive bunch, one that does a great job of generating big plays in the run game. It's a styles make fights type of situation, one that I believe will yield a very close game.

The presence of four-loss Illinois State in the FCS finals has delivered a double-digit spread. While the Redbirds have impressed, they are dealing with their fifth straight playoff game away from home and seventh in the last eight. The travel could take its toll. Montana State is well-rounded, ranking eighth in scoring offense and defense in FCS. The Bobcats wield an average points margin of 20 per game. Only twice have their wins come by fewer than this number. These championship games can get out of hand. Prior to last year's three-point thriller, the margin were 22, 24 and 28 points. We might have another here.