Montana State University is preparing for the annual Cat-Griz football rivalry with a series of events during the week of November 17. The highly anticipated football game, known as the “Brawl of the Wild,” will take place at Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula on Saturday, November 22, with kickoff scheduled for noon. Fans can watch the game on Scripps Networks, ESPN+, or attend local watch parties.
One of the main activities is the Can the Griz food drive, which runs from November 8 to 22. This off-field competition between Montana State University (MSU) and the University of Montana (UM) aims to collect donations for local food banks. The event is now in its 26th year and is organized by MSU’s Office of Student Engagement. Non-perishable food items and monetary contributions are being accepted at various drop-off locations.
Another event is the Annual Brawl of the Wild Lecture, hosted by MSU Retirees & Associates along with both Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLI) from MSU and Montana. James Koch, former president of UM, will give a virtual presentation examining financial and competitive aspects of intercollegiate athletics as well as governance structures at different levels. The lecture takes place Thursday, November 20 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in Bozeman at the MSU Alumni Foundation Great Room and online. In-person registration costs $15, covering light appetizers and beverages; online attendance is free but requires registration by November 13.
Bobcat fans are also invited to participate in Bobcat Brawl Bingo during game day on November 22. Those who play bingo while watching the game and share their winning card on social media using #BobcatBrawlBingo25 will be entered into a drawing for prizes. Two winners will receive Bobcat Bookstore makeovers valued at $100 each. The MSU Alumni Foundation hosts this event, with rules available online; registration closes Wednesday, November 19.
More than 10,000 alumni and fans from both universities are expected to join over 90 watch parties across the country on game day. A full list of these gatherings can be found through the MSU Alumni Foundation’s website at msuaf.org/catgrizwatchparty. Online registration for these events is preferred by Thursday, November 20, though walk-ins are welcome.
