"Brock Spack's ISU Redbirds knocked out a particularly strong NDSU squad in the round of 16, erasing a late 14-point deficit and nailing a well-timed 2-point conversion. And with the bracket busted, the Redbirds kept rolling: They pulled off two more road upsets -- they're the first team to win four road games in a single playoff run -- and rode a rapidly improving defense to a spot in their first title game since the 2014 heartbreaker."
"Montana State, meanwhile, is in its third title game in five seasons. With a mix of new blood and stalwarts from last year's oh-so-close squad, the Bobcats have won 13 straight, and they outclassed rival Montana in the semifinals. They've waited more than 40 years for a follow-up to their 1984 national title, and they came achingly close to the mountaintop last season. Now all they have to do is beat a team of destiny."
Illinois State rides momentum from a signature upset over North Dakota State and unprecedented road success into its first title game since 2014. The Redbirds erased a late 14-point deficit, made a decisive 2-point conversion, won four road playoff games, and improved sharply on defense down the stretch. Montana State enters its third title game in five seasons with a 13-game winning streak, a blend of new talent and returning stalwarts, and a semifinal win over rival Montana. The Bobcats seek their first national title since 1984. The championship game is Monday night in Nashville at 7:30 ET on ESPN.
Read at ESPN.com
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