The Montana Grizzlies’ first-round Big Sky Conference playoff game at Idaho State is the best of possible road games.
Regardless of the hype, most focused upon the controversial nature of the teams’ last game in Pocatello, a Montana overtime win made possible by an officials’ decision, it’s a game Montana can win.
Would the Griz rather travel to Odgen to face Weber State, a team with two wins over Montana in league play? Or Montana State, where numerous dominoes would be stacked against the Griz?
Though the Bengals are one of the better defensive squads in the Big Sky this season – and Montana has fared poorly against tough defensive teams – Montana matches up well man for man against ISU in quickness, rebounding and game pace.
Besides, if Montana truly deserves an appearance at the semifinal round in Portland, the conditions should be favorable. You can bet the Big Sky Conference will have a capable officiating crew on the court for this high-charged game. And both teams have a lot to prove.
I decided my previous two scouting reports were accurate enough to bear repeat examination, so I’ll let them stand. You can read the most recent SCOUTING REPORT here.
My brief game story from Montana OT win is here. A game analysis of the Montana overtime win is here.
