Introduction:

The Orediggers of Montana Technological University delivered one of their most memorable seasons in 2025. As members of the NAIA and the competitive Frontier Conference, montana tech football captured national attention with an undefeated regular season and a deep playoff run. Fans in Butte and across Montana rallied behind the team. The program, rich in mining heritage, symbolized resilience and community pride.

Under head coach Kyle Samson, the Orediggers achieved a historic 12-0 regular season record. They clinched the Frontier Conference East Division title and earned the No. 3 seed in the NAIA Football Championship Series. However, their journey ended in the quarterfinals with a loss to rival College of Idaho. This article covers the season’s highlights, key games, player performances, and future outlook as of December 2025.

Program History and Tradition

Montana Tech’s football roots trace back decades. The team plays at Bob Green Field in Alumni Coliseum, named after legendary coach Bob Green. He led the Orediggers to prominence in the late 20th century, including a national runner-up finish in 1996.

In recent years, the program has rebuilt steadily. After Chuck Morrell’s tenure, Kyle Samson took over. He brought stability and success. The 2025 season marked the third consecutive playoff appearance, building on strong 2023 and 2024 campaigns.

The Frontier Conference expanded to 14 teams in 2025, splitting into East and West divisions. This change created new rivalries and a tougher schedule. Yet the Orediggers thrived. They dominated the East Division and earned an automatic playoff bid.

Key Players Who Defined the 2025 Season

Several standouts carried the team. Quarterback Jarrett Wilson emerged as a dual-threat leader. He threw for thousands of yards and rushed effectively. His poise in big moments kept drives alive.

Senior wide receiver Levi Torgerson became a legend. He finished with over 100 receptions, 1,168 receiving yards, and 14 touchdowns. Torgerson also excelled as a return specialist, scoring on punt and kick returns. He set a program record for all-purpose yards with 2,446—the most in the NAIA.

Nick Michelotti provided another reliable target. Running backs like Nate Milanowski and Christian Vetter powered the ground game. On defense, Tel Arthur anchored the line as Frontier East Defensive Player of the Year.

The coaching staff’s continuity played a huge role. Retaining the entire group from 2024 allowed seamless improvement. The defense allowed just 21 points per game, forcing 23 turnovers.

The 2025 Schedule: A Gauntlet of Challenges

The Orediggers faced a balanced slate with home and away games. They hosted several marquee matchups in Butte.

Home games included:

• Rocky Mountain College (September 13)
• College of Idaho (September 27, 125th Anniversary Game)
• Dakota State (October 4, Homecoming)
• Mayville State (October 25, Hall of Fame Game)
• Valley City State (November 15, Senior Day)

Road trips took them to Carroll College (September 6), Southern Oregon (September 20), MSU-Northern (October 11), Rocky Mountain (November 1), and Dickinson State (November 8).

The season opened with tough cross-division games against Montana Western and Carroll. Non-conference clashes added variety. The schedule prepared them well for postseason play.

Regular Season Dominance: Game-by-Game Highlights

Montana Tech started strong. They edged College of Idaho 27-24 in a thrilling September home win. That victory proved pivotal, handing the Yotes their only regular-season loss.

The Orediggers rolled through conference play. They shut out opponents like Valley City State 41-0 on Senior Day. The defense stifled offenses, holding teams to minimal yards.

By mid-November, Tech sat at 11-0. They ranked as high as No. 4 in the NAIA polls. Fans packed Alumni Coliseum, creating an electric atmosphere.

One standout performance came against MSU-Northern, a 49-7 road rout. Wilson and Torgerson connected repeatedly. The team clinched the East Division early, focusing on momentum for playoffs.

Postseason Run: Playoffs and Heartbreak

As the No. 3 seed, Montana Tech earned a first-round bye. They hosted Carroll College in the second round on November 29.

The rivalry delivered drama. Yet the Orediggers prevailed 31-21. Wilson threw multiple touchdowns to Torgerson. Tyler Kovick’s defensive plays sealed the win. It marked Tech’s first postseason victory under Samson and their fifth straight over Carroll.

The quarterfinal rematched College of Idaho on December 6 in Butte. Snow fell as fans braved the cold.

Early on, the Yotes struck first. Rylie Byington rushed for big gains. Montana Tech fought back, trailing just 14-13 at halftime. Torgerson hauled in key catches, including a touchdown.

However, turnovers hurt the Orediggers. College of Idaho capitalized, rushing for 356 yards and six touchdowns. Byington scored four times. The final score read 41-26. Tech’s perfect season ended at 12-1.

Wilson threw for 367 yards. Torgerson added 202 receiving yards. But the ground game struggled, managing only 92 yards.

Latest News and Reactions as of December 2025

The quarterfinal loss stung, but pride dominated reactions. Coach Samson praised the seniors. He called it one of the program’s best seasons.

Torgerson’s record-breaking year earned All-American buzz. Arthur and others received conference honors.

Fans and analysts hailed the undefeated regular season as historic. Social media buzzed with highlights and gratitude. The program gained recruits from the exposure.

Offseason work begins soon. Spring ball in 2026 will focus on replacing graduates like Torgerson. Yet the foundation remains strong.

Coaching Staff and Future Outlook

Kyle Samson’s leadership has transformed the program. His staff’s retention fosters development. The expanded Frontier Conference promises more excitement ahead.

Recruiting emphasizes local talent and toughness. Montana Tech attracts players who value academics and athletics. The university’s engineering focus appeals to dedicated students.

For 2026, expectations stay high. Returning starters like Wilson position the Orediggers as contenders again. Rivalries with College of Idaho and Carroll will intensify.

Fan Experience and Community Impact

Butte embraces montana tech football. Games boost local economy and spirit. Homecoming and anniversary events draw alumni.

The team’s success inspires youth programs. Players engage in community service, embodying “Count On Me.”

Tickets sell out quickly for big games. Season packages offer the best value. Follow @DiggerAthletics for updates.

Statistical Standouts from 2025

The offense balanced pass and run effectively. Torgerson’s 103 receptions led the Frontier. The defense ranked top in turnovers forced.

Playoff games showcased resilience. Despite the loss, the Orediggers outgained opponents in yards often.

This season solidified Montana Tech as an NAIA powerhouse. The future looks bright in Butte.

FAQ – Montana Tech Football

Q: What was Montana Tech’s final record in 2025? A: The Orediggers finished 12-1, going undefeated in the regular season before a quarterfinal playoff loss.

Q: Who was the head coach for the 2025 season? A: Kyle Samson led the team, earning praise for the program’s best regular season in years.

Q: Which player broke records in 2025? A: Senior wide receiver Levi Torgerson set a program record with 2,446 all-purpose yards and led the NAIA.

Q: How far did Montana Tech advance in the NAIA playoffs? A: They reached the quarterfinals as the No. 3 seed, beating Carroll College before falling to College of Idaho.

Q: Where can I find the official schedule and scores? A: Visit godiggers.com, the official Montana Tech athletics site, for full schedules, rosters, and archives.

Q: Is Montana Tech football part of the NCAA or NAIA? A: The Orediggers compete in the NAIA as members of the Frontier Conference.

Q: When does the next season start? A: The 2026 schedule will be released in spring, with games typically beginning in late August.