SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. — Montana secured a dominant 42-7 victory over Cal Poly, with Junior Bergen making headlines by returning a punt for 84 yards, marking his sixth career touchdown in the Big Sky Conference. This achievement sets a new conference record for career punt return touchdowns.

The Grizzlies, who are currently ranked eighth in the FCS coaches poll, started strong, establishing a 14-0 lead in the first half thanks to touchdown passes from both Keali’i Ah Yat and Logan Fife. The excitement continued into the third quarter when Bergen fielded a punt at the right hashmark, quickly shifted direction, and raced down the sideline for a remarkable touchdown.

Montana (7-2, 4-1 in the Big Sky Conference) capitalized on interceptions from Chrishawn Gordon and Garrett Hustedt, quickly converting these opportunities into short drives that led to two more touchdowns, extending their lead to 35-0. Eli Gillman contributed with a 3-yard rushing touchdown, while freshman lineman Lucas Freitas recovered a fumbled ball in the end zone for another score.

Fife completed 12 of his 16 passes for 137 yards, including a 21-yard touchdown throw to Keelan White. Ah Yat also had a successful outing, going 9 for 14 with 137 yards and connecting with Xavier Harris for a 24-yard touchdown.

In contrast, the Mustangs (2-6, 1-4) employed three quarterbacks throughout the game, collectively completing 20 of 36 passes for 234 yards. Richie Watts threw an 18-yard touchdown pass to Alek Marshall, while Je’Kob Jones struggled with 13 completions on 28 attempts and two interceptions for 147 yards.

Next week, the Grizzlies will face off against fourth-ranked UC Davis (8-1), a highly anticipated matchup as both teams aim to secure a vital victory in their conference standings.