Well-rested Vandals face defending champion Montana State on ESPN | Things to watch

When Idaho (0-4, 0-1 Big Sky) meets defending national champion Montana State (5-0, 2-0 Big Sky) in a nationally televised ESPN matchup, each team faces unique challenges. Idaho will need to contend with a highly explosive Montana State offense, especially on the passing game. In contrast, Montana State must protect against a run-heavy Idaho strategy.

Montana State coach Brent Vigen cautiously assessed the Vandals, stating, "They're extremely explosive on offense, the passing game in particular. Defensively, they've shown some stretches of good play throughout the season. This is a capable team, and we're going to get their best."

Three key aspects to watch include the quarterback battle, the running game, and the rest factor. Idaho senior Joshua Wood leads the Big Sky Conference in total offense, averaging 293.8 yards per game, and has rushed for 170 yards while passing for 1,005. Montana State's senior QB Patrick Duchien stepped in for Montana State's All-American Justin Lamson, who missed action due to a leg injury. Duchien has shown readiness by throwing for 204 yards and running for 77 yards in a recent game against Northern Arizona.

The Bobcats' running game will be spearheaded by starter Adam Jones, who went down with an injury last week, and Colson Coon, who effectively replaced him against Northern Arizona, rushing for 197 yards. With Idaho's run defense struggling against both running backs and quarterbacks who can press the perimeter, Montana State's approach could prove problematic for the Vandals.

Furthermore, Montana State is playing on a short week, having just returned from a bye, while Idaho will enjoy the advantage of an extra week due to their bye week. The rest factor may prove decisive, as Idaho coach Thomas Ford Jr. anticipates his team to benefit from the additional time, while Montana State might suffer due to the lack of rest.