As we await the big matchup on Monday night in Frisco, Texas, we here at HERO Sports wondered – as we do annually – what do the high school recruits of the two FCS national title game participants, Montana State and North Dakota State, think about the big game?
Sure we expect them to pick their future college football team to win – but what do they think will be the most important matchups of the game are? And what specifically are they looking forward to starting this upcoming fall? We caught up with a few of them.
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NDSU – Ryan Babatz, OL
I believe NDSU will win by 7 and the key to this game is the trenches. These 2 QBs will be very fun to watch. I am excited to come into a championship culture and surround myself with other high-level athletes and coaches that are all bought in with the same goal. I am very excited for this game. NDSU is also used to being in Frisco and in the national championship and their playoff experience will help give them some extra confidence.
Montana State – Graysen Schneider, DL
I think the biggest key to the game for MSU is really just doing what we have done all year and that’s the 1-0 mindset. I’m just really excited to see two juggernaut programs face off at the highest stage. And then one of the biggest things I’m excited for is the culture and being able to be a part of such a dynamic and prideful group and community.
NDSU – Myles Mitchell, RB
I think we’ll win in a close game and the key to this game is (NDSU QB) Cam Miller. This is his NDSU legacy game and this game is going to be on him and how he plays but the biggest matchup in this is going to be both defenses, with two high-scoring offenses — which defense is going to get more stops is going to determine this game? I’m excited to be a part of this next season just because it is fun to win and having the opportunity to chase a national championship is crazy and is exciting.
Montana State – Malachi Claunch, RB
I’ll pick Montana State 35-17. We will win the turnover battle and make plays on O and D. I’m super excited to get to compete and play with new teammates. I think it will be great for them to finish off with a perfect season and that Montana State offense and defense is going to go out and dominate.
NDSU – Dylan Vokal, DB
I think (NDSU) wins by three. I think the key to the game for us will be limiting pressure on Cam Miller during pass plays. If we get the running game going early that would be awesome but I think the game-changing plays will be down the field. So, the biggest matchup is our O-line and their D-line. If we can win the turnover battle and special teams too, that can change the game. I can’t wait to be a part of the program next year. The coaching staff have been awesome through the recruiting process and the other commits that I’ve talked to have been great. It’s super exciting that we’re in the Natty this year and I can’t wait to watch.
NDSU – Jacob Wrbanek, LB
I think (NDSU) will win by 10 on Monday; I think the key to this game is stopping their QB (Tommy Mellott) because of how dynamic of an athlete he is. I think the biggest matchup in this game is the QBs, how well they can perform will be a major factor in the outcome of this game. I’m super excited about the fan base and being able to compete against some of the best in the country. I mean, all over Minneapolis/St. Paul today there was Bison gear and fans heading to Texas for the game so being able to put on a jersey and develop in an amazing program that has fans that support you is super cool. I think the natty title game will be sweet, I can’t wait to watch and I’m super excited to watch NDSU as a defense rally and put a stop to Tommy (Mellott).
NDSU – Alex Warden, OL
I got NDSU winning by 9. I think with both teams having good quarterbacks the O and D line will be key for pass protection and pass rush. I’m not really looking for a matchup but want Cam Miller and Bryce Lance to work together. Next year as a most likely redshirt freshman I hope I’ll be able to give a great look as a scout player and contribute to my team. For the Natty, I have a good feeling for NDSU to get out there and play tough.
