Justin Lamson returns to lead Montana State repeat push

Montana State's championship momentum just got a major charge: starting quarterback Justin Lamson announced he will return for his final college season, posting "Let's run it back" on social media the day after the Bobcats returned from Nashville. The commitment preserves the centerpiece of an offense that delivered one of the most efficient and explosive seasons in program history.

Lamson closed 2025 with a program-record 71.6 percent completion rate, throwing for 3,172 yards, 26 touchdowns and only three interceptions. He also rushed for 734 yards and 16 touchdowns, finishing the year as a true dual-threat catalyst. In the playoff run his playmaking tipped the biggest moments in Montana State's favor: an 87-yard touchdown pass in the semifinal against Montana and a fourth-and-10 touchdown pass in overtime of the national championship that helped set up the game-winning extra point.

Keeping Lamson in Bozeman secures continuity for the Bobcats' offense heading into offseason work and spring practice. Returning a quarterback with elite accuracy and proven late-game poise reduces turnover risk in the roster cycle and gives Montana State a head start on installing game plans, building timing with receivers, and mentoring backups. For opponents, Lamson's return means preparing for an offense that can attack vertically and control the clock on the ground.

The quarterback's announcement came alongside another roster retention: rising senior wide receiver Taco Dowler also confirmed plans to remain at Montana State. Dowler's presence deepens the veteran receiving corps and pairs a reliable target with Lamson's precision passing and big-play ability. Together they keep the nucleus of a championship offense intact.

Back in Bozeman, players and fans staged celebratory welcomes after the return from Nashville, underscoring how a successful season can galvanize the community. That local buy-in matters for game-day atmosphere, recruiting conversations, and fundraising as the program shifts from celebration to preparation for defending the crown.

For Bobcat fans and FCS followers, Lamson's decision answers the biggest offseason question: who will lead the offense. It sets expectations high for another run at the title and frames the offseason storyline around fine-tuning rather than major personnel overhaul. Watch for spring practice reports, depth chart updates and how the coaching staff balances exploiting Lamson's dual-threat skills while protecting him through improved line play and rotation at running back and receiver. The next chapter for Montana State begins with continuity, community momentum, and a clear signal that the Bobcats intend to run it back.