Hate, Passion, Energy: What Makes The Griz-Cat Rivalry Special

364 days a year leads to Montana's main event between the Montana Grizzlies and the Montana State Bobcats.

There's a radio ad that brands it as "a rivalry unlike any other," and it's spot on. There are few rivalries as passionate and sometimes hateful as the Brawl of the Wild. Especially at the FCS level. The Dakota Marker between North Dakota State and South Dakota State is the only rivalry in the same realm of hatred, and I still don't think it's that close.

Before we get to why it's so special, here's every connection the state of Montana has to the NFL this year. Both the University of Montana and Montana State University are well-represented.

I have experienced a lot of rivalry games in my 27 years on Earth, but I don't know if there's a more fiery rivalry at any level than UM-MSU. I pinpointed what makes this rivalry so special by asking the fans. We received some great responses. Even the Voice of the Griz Riley Corcoran joined in.

"What makes this rivalry so special and unique is how it unites the entire state for 52 weeks a year," stated Corcoran. "What happens on Saturday will be talked about for the next 364 days because of the passion that both fan bases have in their teams and the pride that all supporters have for their respective programs they root for."

Cliff on Facebook said "It's the biggest thing to pro ball we have in the state. Such a fun environment too!"

Brian wrote, "I don't think there's more energy [put] in by both teams against any other opponent."

There were a couple of Griz fans who took a shot at Cat fans.

"Sportsmanship. The Griz fans have it. The Bobcat fans, .... not so much," said Jay via Facebook.

Jerry dropped a solid meme in the chat as well:

We did have one fan, Jeff, make an appearance on the post saying "I love the Blaze (Missoula's Rock Station) and the Bobats. It's a great rivalry with tons of history."

RELATED: WILL THE 2023 BRAWL OF THE WILD SET ANOTHER RECORD?

Well Jeff, even though we're on different sides this weekend we love you too. Thanks for listening!

Whichever side you're on enjoy tomorrow. It's a once-in-a-lifetime-like event with all the implications surrounding it.