PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland State startled Montana right off the bat Saturday afternoon at Providence Park.

But order was eventually restored and the No. 2-ranked Grizzlies — propelled by an interception-happy defense — went on to a 63-17 blowout win to remain undefeated (11-0, 7-0 Big Sky) and in prime contention for the conference championship.

Nevertheless, it was an interesting start.

The Vikings pooched the opening kickoff against the unsuspecting Griz, who muffed it away to PSU’s Pierce Walker. Two plays later Tyrese Smith scored on a 7-yard run to put Portland State up 7-0.

Montana’s next drive ended with a missed field goal and the Vikings’ offense then moved to the UM 27, but that’s when Montana started patrolling the air.

Griz safety T.J. Rausch intercepted PSU’s John-Keawe Sa

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