When it comes to college football, there are few rivalries that are as passionate and iconic as the one between Missoula's University of Montana Grizzlies and Bozeman's Montana State University's Bobcats, known as "Brawl of the Wild." This rivalry is over a century old, and is the pinnacle of college sports fandom in the Treasure State. But the rivalry is about more than just football-- It is a celebration of Montana's culture, its people, and its love of sports, and it brings people together from all over the state to create memories and forge lasting relationships. The Brawl of the Wild is the 31st-oldest in NCAA Division I and the eleventh-oldest west of the Mississippi River. Whether you are a die-hard football fanatic or a newcomer to collegiate sports, the Brawl of the Wild is a a historic rivalry and a can't-miss annual event in the state of Montana.
The University of Montana football team in 1897, courtesy of University of Montana Athletics.
The first matchup between the University of Montana and Montana State University occurred in Bozeman in 1897, where the Bobcats defeated the Grizzlies 18-6. From there, the annual competition continued, but it wasn't until the early 20th century when the origins of the rivalry we see today began to take shape. As both universities' football programs began to grow in prominence and admission rates increased at the schools, the annual football match-up grew from a regular sporting event to all-out celebrations of school spirit and pride in the state of Montana. Over the years, the Brawl of the Wild has brought the state of Montana's football fans together, surrounded by the spirit of the special place they all call home and filled with school and state pride, as well as lively-yet-friendly debates about which school reigns supreme on and off the football field.
When is the Brawl of the Wild held?
While the date varies, this annual football event is always held in late October or early November.
Where is the Brawl of the Wild played?
The game alternates between the University of Montana’s Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula and Montana State University’s Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman.
How can I attend the Brawl of the Wild?
Tickets for the game can be purchased through both universities' athletic department. Keep in mind that this is a high-demand event, and tickets often sell out quickly, so get your tickets early or consider purchasing season tickets to guarantee your spot.
How do the Grizzlies and Bobcats compare historically?
The overall record has UM on top with a W-L-T record of 74-24-5, with UM also leading the trophy series (starting in 2001) 12-10.
What do the winners of the Brawl of the Wild receive?
On top of epic bragging rights, the winning team receives the massive Great Divide Trophy.
