BOZEMAN — Those expecting a similar result in Montana State's second meeting against Mercyhurst as last season — when MSU rolled to a 39-point win — were in for a bit of a surprise Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.

The Lakers, now in their second season as an NCAA Division I program, showed what a difference a year can make as they won the time of possession battle and churned out 20 first downs.

WATCH THE VIDEO: Following shutout of Mercyhurst, Montana State gears up to defend Big Sky crown

The No. 4-ranked Bobcats eventually prevailed 17-0 for their first shutout victory in two years, but coach Brent Vigen noted that MSU faced a stiff test against a Mercyhurst team that was playing like it had nothing to lose.

"We're going get everybody's best shot," said Vigen after the game. "And that'

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