Montana State Football Faces Offseason Changes

News Summary

The Montana State football program is experiencing significant offseason changes, including standout cornerback Andrew Powdrell entering the NCAA transfer portal. Despite this, several key players, including all-conference running back Julius Davis, have committed to returning for the upcoming season. The team will need to adjust to roster alterations while also focusing on building a strong new unit for the 2025 season. Competition remains fierce, especially with rivals like North Dakota State retaining their top players.

Big News from Bozeman: Montana State Football Faces Major Offseason Changes

Bozeman is buzzing with the latest news from the Montana State football program. The offseason is rolling along, but it hasn’t been without its twists and turns. Shortly after the NCAA transfer portal opened, standout player Andrew Powdrell decided to make a significant change. On January 6, 2025, the rising junior, who earned recognition as an All-Big Sky Conference second-team cornerback, announced his entry into the portal.

A Mixed Bag of Departures and Returns

While Powdrell’s decision sent shockwaves through the Bobcats’ fan base, there’s a glimmer of hope with other team members choosing to stay put. Securing their commitments for the upcoming season, all-conference second-team running back Julius Davis and several other key players expressed their intent to return for 2025. Davis promised to continue his journey with unfinished business on the horizon, signaling that there’s still a lot to prove for this talented squad.

Returning Players Signal Strength

The Bobcats are not short on talent, with key players like Paul Brott, who made the All-Big Sky second-team as a nose tackle, and Alec Eckert, the first-string defensive tackle, set to don the blue and gold once more. Furthermore, fans can look forward to seeing Titan Fleischmann, an all-conference second-team right tackle, and co-starting left guards Burke Mastel and JT Reed returning as well. Kicking duties will remain in capable hands with Myles Sansted returning as the starting placekicker.

Understanding the Portal Moves

Following the conclusion of a thrilling season where the Bobcats wrapped up with an impressive 15-1 record, the dynamic landscape of college football has certainly taken its toll. Montana State faced North Dakota State in a nail-biting FCS championship game, ultimately falling short with a score of 35-32 at Toyota Stadium. Shortly after that, the transfer portal window opened, leading to a wave of player movement.

This shakeup includes Powdrell, who became the 11th player from MSU to enter the portal since December 9, 2024. Other significant departures include talented players like Lonyatta Alexander Jr., a starting wide receiver, and All-American running back Scottre Humphrey, who made big contributions on the field. The roster changes are certainly making the offseason an exciting yet challenging time for the coaching staff.

The Competition Heats Up

As the Bobcats navigate through these changes, they’re not alone in facing challenges. Competitors like North Dakota State have solidified their rosters, retaining standouts like Bryce Lance and Logan Kopp, who made key plays in their championship victory against MSU. Lance put up an impressive 9 receptions for 107 yards and scored a touchdown, while Kopp made significant contributions on defense, showcasing the tough competition the Bobcats will face in the upcoming season.

Looking Ahead

With players like Powdrell entering the portal and many returning for another run, the Montana State football program is poised for an interesting offseason. Beyond maintaining their current roster, MSU will need to secure commitments from incoming transfers to stay competitive. As they gear up for the 2025 season, the focus will undoubtedly be on building a strong, cohesive unit that can tackle new challenges head-on.

As spring approaches and training ramps up, fans and players alike are sure to keep their eyes peeled for updates and announcements that could shape the future of Montana State football.

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Additional Resources

• 406MT Sports: Andrew Powdrell Transfer Portal
• Montana Sports: Running Backs Enter Portal
• Bozeman Daily Chronicle: Dru Polidore Transfer Portal
• KBZK: Montana State Looks Ahead
• Bozeman Daily Chronicle: Scottre Humphrey Transfer Portal
• Wikipedia: NCAA Transfer Portal