Montana Thunder: Griz Nation’s Deafening Playoff Energy

If you’ve ever been to Washington-Grizzly Stadium, you know it’s not just loud—it’s deafening. And during last weekend’s playoff game against TSU, Griz Nation turned the volume up to a level that even Tony Romo would have to admit rivaled the infamous "12th Man" of Seattle’s Lumen Field. But here’s the thing: this was no packed NFL stadium. This was 12,479 fans, bundled up against the cold, making enough noise to rattle the Bitterroot Mountains.

It was a late kickoff yet again this season. The team did not take to the field until 8 pm. Being a holiday weekend, many students and season ticket holders couldn't make it to the game. Leaving the stadium looking a little empty. But it sure sounded like everybody showed up. Fans stomped, cheered, and roared with the kind of enthusiasm that makes opposing teams’ ears ring for days. When the Tigers tried to regroup during a timeout, it seemed futile—how do you strategize when you can’t hear your own thoughts?

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Every big play sent shockwaves through the crowd, and the noise wasn’t just heard—it was felt. The cheers for the Griz made the stadium feel like a sold-out game, pulsing with the collective energy of Griz Nation. It’s not an exaggeration to say that the fans’ noise was a key part of the game’s story.

Just take it from former NFL player and Head Coach of TSU, Eddie George. He compared WA/GRIZ to places like Baltimore and Penn State.

If you think playoff football is exciting, you haven’t lived until you’ve experienced it at Washington-Grizzly Stadium.