FCS Playoff Picture: At-Large Bid Battle Intensifies

The Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoff selection show draws near, and with just one game left for many teams, several are fighting for at-large bids in the postseason. With 24 spots on the line, including 10 automatic bids and 14 at-large spots, the intensity of competition is peaking.

UC Davis, despite potential outcomes in Week 13, appears secure with an at-large bid. Their notable victories over Idaho and Montana, combined with a well-regarded nonconference win against Southern Utah, bolster their resume, with their sole FCS loss being to Montana State.

For Idaho, their resume is compelling. Despite two FCS losses, they boast an FBS win, alongside victories over conference champion Abilene Christian and bubble team Northern Arizona. Even if they fall to Idaho State, their position remains strong on the playoff bubble.

Montana’s position hinges significantly on the outcome against Montana State. A win against them, a potential No. 1 seed, could solidify their spot, though their previous victories over Western Carolina, Northern Arizona, and Missouri State provide a credible case for postseason contention.

Rhode Island‘s only significant FCS loss was to Delaware. Even with a potential loss, Rhode Island’s strong single-loss record in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) holds them in a favorable light for playoff consideration.

Among the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) schools, either North Dakota State, South Dakota State, or South Dakota will clinch the automatic qualifier, with all three remaining high contenders for at-large bids due to their consistent top-five rankings throughout the season.

Southeast Missouri State (SEMO), after a successful regular season marred by only two FCS losses, remains in the running for either an automatic bid or an at-large position, contingent upon the outcome of their upcoming game.

Duquesne can secure an automatic bid from the Northeast Conference with a win. However, even if they lose, their strong record, buoyed by a nonconference victory over Youngstown State, places them in the at-large conversation.

Illinois State maintains hope in the postseason outlook, though their inclusion might depend on other Week 13 results. With prominent wins and losses only to highly ranked FCS teams, the Redbirds could find themselves in the playoffs with a win.

Villanova‘s candidacy also looks promising with key victories over Stony Brook and New Hampshire. A win over Delaware could solidify their position, although losses have occasionally hindered their momentum.

Likewise, Tarleton State presents a significant case, entering the bubble with two recent losses potentially threatening their position. A win against Central Arkansas, another bubble team, could be critical for their playoff aspirations.