The University of Montana Grizzlies couldn't do it, and the Montana State Bobcats haven't had the chance.

But on Saturday, as the Carroll College Saints go for an unprecedented fourth national football championship in a row, Sen. Max Baucus will be watching.

After all, he's going "double or nothing" on a bet with Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh.

"I have every confidence that the Carroll College Saints will be victorious again this year," Baucus said. "Senator Bayh is going to be paying up for a second year in a row."

Baucus and Bayh placed a bet on last year's national championship game in which the Saints pull off a dazzling win when a spike after a bad snap resulted in a second chance at a game-winning field goal. The final score was 15-13.

The last-minute win left a bad taste in the Indiana senator's mouth, but left Baucus with some home-grown Indian popcorn. Had the Saints lost, Bayh would have been paid handsomely with some Helena-brewed beer.

Baucus spokesman Barrett Kaiser said Baucus agreed to let Bayh go "double or nothing" on Saturday's game because he's confident the Saints will make history winning four straight championship titles.

He also said Baucus was feeling bullish after last year's Saints victory. The two teams are returning to Savannah, Tenn., for Saturday's game. Baucus hopes to attend.

"The Cougars aren't going to know what hit 'em," Baucus said. "I have no doubt about that."

Reporter Martin Kidston can be reached at 447-4086, at helenair.com">mkidston@helenair.com.