Montana St. Bobcats vs Idaho Vandals Predictions Today
Montana State will beat Idaho, with a projected final of Bobcats 34, Vandals 24. Patrick Duchien’s production against Northern Arizona gives the unbeaten visitors a credible offensive answer despite three confirmed absences. Idaho’s productive passing game and recent close losses make a 17-point spread demanding. Neither Montana State -17 (-115) nor the 58.5 total offers a strong enough edge; the official recommendation is Pass.
Montana St. Bobcats vs Idaho Vandals prediction and best bet
Montana State has the stronger winning case because its replacement quarterback delivered through the air and on the ground against Northern Arizona. Duchien’s performance, supported by Colson Coon and Carter Dahlke, gives the Bobcats multiple ways to move the ball with Justin Lamson, Taco Dowler and Adam Jones ruled out.
That supports picking Montana State to win, but laying 17 points asks considerably more. Idaho averaged 30.0 points against three FCS opponents and lost its two games before the bye by eight combined points. Those facts make a competitive game plausible. The best betting decision is Pass: Montana State’s winning edge looks firmer than its chances of covering this spread.
Odds, game time and how to watch
Time: Friday, October 2, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. PT / 8:30 p.m. MT, according to both schools and the Big Sky Conference.
Venue and TV: P1FCU Kibbie Dome, Moscow, Idaho. ESPN.
Records: Montana State is 5-0 overall, 2-0 in the Big Sky. Idaho is 0-4 overall, 0-1 in conference.
SportsJaw spread: Montana State -17 (-115); Idaho +17 (-115).
SportsJaw total: Over 58.5 (-116); Under 58.5 (-114).