Johnson throws 4 TDs, Montana blanks Northwestern State

Updated Sep. 3, 2022 6:44 p.m. ET

Associated Press

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — Lucas Johnson threw four touchdown passes and the Montana defense forced five turnovers as the FCS second-ranked Grizzles coasted to a 47-0 win over Northwestern State on Saturday in the season opener for both teams.

Johnson, a graduate transfer from San Diego State, was 15 of 24 for 208 yards with Mitch Roberts going for 103 yards and two scores on six catches. The Grizzlies, who finished with 464 total yards, had 211 rushing and Marcus Knight and Nick Ostmo had rushing touchdowns.

Montana is 4-0 against the Demons, the three previous games coming in the playoffs, the last in 2004. The Griz have won 19 straight home openers.

Roberts hauled in a 30-yard scoring pass on the opening drive and his 13-yard TD reception made it 14-0 after one quarter.

Tyler Flink returned a punt blocked by Levi Janacaro 32 yards for a touchdown that gave Montana a 26-0 lead in the final minute of the first half.

The Grizzlies held Northwestern State to 219 yards. In addition to recovering three fumbles, the defense picked off Miles Fallin twice. The visitors also had 10 penalties.

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