New Hampshire started off their second round FCS playoff game against Montana State well and jumped out to a 10-0 lead after the first quarter of play. Montana State had not lost at home all season. They didn't panic and slowly got back into the game. The Wildcats scored nine more points in the second quarter while Bobcats scored 16 second quarter points.
Montana State continued a run of 17 unanswered points from the end of the second quarter through the fourth quarter to gain a 26-19 lead. The Bobcats overcame four turnovers in the win, three of which were interceptions by quarterback DeNarius McGhee. McGhee made up for the mistakes with two rushing touchdowns and a passing touchdown.
New Hampshire had a chance to tie the game late. After Kevin Decker's only interception looked to have sealed the game for Montana State with 1:16 left to play, the Bobcats forced a punt and got the ball back with just seconds remaining. Decker threw a touchdown with only six seconds remaining. The extra point was missed and Montana State escaped with a 26-25 win.
Decker finished the game with 200 yards passing, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception.
Montana State (10-2) moves on to the quarterfinals against the No. 1 seed Sam Houston State. New Hampshire finishes their 2011 season at 8-4.