The Montana high school football season continues to heat up with a compelling non-conference matchup as Corvallis Spartans travel to face the Bigfork Vikings on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Bigfork High School. Both teams are seeking to rebound from early setbacks, setting the stage for a competitive and tactical showdown.
Matchup: Corvallis vs Bigfork
Date: Friday., Sep. 5, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch here
Coming into this contest, Corvallis holds an 0-1 record following a 6-26 loss to Polson, while Bigfork also sits at 0-1 after a 7-28 defeat against Frenchtown. This game represents an important opportunity for both squads to establish momentum and fine-tune their strategies for the season ahead.
Corvallis Spartans: Looking to Bounce Back
The Spartans enter this matchup aiming to recover from a difficult season opener. Ranked 30th in Montana and classified as a Class 12 team, Corvallis possesses a balanced roster with both rushing and passing capabilities.
Offensive Overview
Corvallis’ offense has shown glimpses of effectiveness despite their opening-week loss. Averaging 161 total yards per game, the Spartans combine 83 rushing yards with 78 passing yards and 33 receiving yards. Quarterback Reese Tucker (#2) has been the central figure in the offense, throwing for 78 yards and accumulating 92 total yards in their first contest. Running back Kade Bowles (#24) contributes significantly on the ground, adding 41 rushing yards per game, which gives Corvallis a dual-threat dimension.
In their opener, the Spartans scored 6 points in the second quarter, showing they can find opportunities to put points on the board. Against Bigfork, Corvallis will look to sustain drives and capitalize on any defensive lapses from the Vikings.
Defensive Strengths
Corvallis’ defense is a fundamental part of their game plan, averaging 70 tackles per game and recording 1 sack in the opening contest. Players like Marshall Jessop (#32), who leads the team in tackles, will be pivotal in containing Bigfork’s rushing attack and limiting explosive plays.
Bigfork Vikings: Home Advantage in Focus
The Vikings also aim to recover from an early-season loss. Ranked 19th in Montana and classified as a Class 8 team, Bigfork has the home-field advantage at Bigfork High School, which could play a key role in this matchup.
Offensive Approach
Bigfork’s offense is still finding its rhythm, having totaled only 20 yards in their opener while scoring 7 points in the second quarter against Frenchtown. Key player Austin Savik (#32) leads the team in rushing and receiving, tallying 18 rushing yards and 28 receiving yards per game. Quarterback Tamret Savik (#11) will be tasked with creating opportunities, although the Vikings are limited in passing yardage, having recorded zero passing yards in their first game.
Success for Bigfork in this matchup will hinge on establishing the run game early, protecting the football, and finding ways to extend drives against Corvallis’ disciplined defense.
Defensive Overview
Defensive statistics for Bigfork in their opening week are incomplete, but limiting Corvallis’ balanced offensive attack will be critical. Applying pressure on Tucker and containing Bowles on the ground will be essential to prevent the Spartans from controlling the game tempo.
Key Matchups
| Category | Corvallis Spartans | Bigfork Vikings | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 0-1 | 0-1 | Both teams seeking first win; early-season pressure is high |
| Total Offense | 161 yards/game | 20 yards/game | Corvallis has an advantage in yardage; Bigfork must improve execution |
| Rushing Yards | 83 yards/game | 20 yards/game | Ground game favors Corvallis, though Bigfork could use short gains and ball control |
| Passing Yards | 78 yards/game | 0 yards/game | Corvallis has more versatile offensive options |
| Tackles Per Game | 70 | N/A | Defensive discipline favors Corvallis; Bigfork’s tackling effectiveness will be key |
| Sacks | 1 | N/A | Corvallis can create pressure to disrupt Bigfork’s limited passing game |
Players to Watch
Corvallis Spartans
- Reese Tucker (#2): Quarterback and offensive leader; responsible for passing and total yardage.
- Kade Bowles (#24): Leading rusher; provides a crucial threat on the ground.
- Marshall Jessop (#32): Defensive standout; leads the team in tackles and contributes a sack.
Bigfork Vikings
- Austin Savik (#32): Primary offensive weapon, leading in rushing and receiving; needs to make big plays for the Vikings to compete.
- Tamret Savik (#11): Quarterback; must generate offense despite early-season struggles.
- Aidan Emerson (#55): Contributes in blocking and line play; key for sustaining drives and opening opportunities.
Strategic Considerations
Corvallis Keys to Victory
- Balanced Offensive Attack: Utilize both rushing and passing to keep Bigfork’s defense off-balance.
- Defensive Discipline: Maintain strong tackling and generate pressure to limit Bigfork’s limited offensive capabilities.
- Ball Control: Minimize turnovers and sustain drives to dictate the pace of the game.
Bigfork Keys to Victory
- Establish the Run Game: Short, consistent gains will help the Vikings maintain possession and build confidence.
- Create Big Plays: With a limited passing attack, explosive plays in the run game or special teams will be critical.
- Home-Field Energy: Capitalize on crowd support to motivate players and maintain intensity throughout the game.
Record Breakdown
Corvallis Spartans (25-26)
- Overall: 0-1
- Home: 0-0
- Away: 0-1
- Non-League: 0-1
Bigfork Vikings (25-26)
- Overall: 0-1
- Home: 0-0
- Away: 0-1
- Non-League: 0-0
Both teams share common early-season struggles, making this game a pivotal opportunity for morale and momentum.
Matchup Outlook
Expect a close, low-scoring contest where execution and mistake-free play could determine the winner. Corvallis appears to have an edge in offensive versatility and total yardage, but Bigfork’s home-field advantage and potential for big plays can keep the game competitive. Fans should anticipate a defensive battle with key moments defined by turnovers, strong tackling, and timely scoring drives.
For continuous updates and live coverage of Montana high school football games, visit Massachusetts High School Football events and Find Your School.
