The 2024 FCS Playoffs are set to commence, with a thrilling field of 24 teams vying for the coveted National Championship. The tournament features a diverse range of programs representing different conferences across the nation. In this comprehensive guide, we provide an in-depth analysis of the teams to watch, the schedule, and the potential outcomes.
North Dakota State University (NDSU) enters the tournament as the defending champion and a perennial powerhouse. Led by star quarterback Cam Miller, the Bison boast a potent offense and a stingy defense. Other top contenders include Montana State University, which has won the last three Big Sky Conference titles, and Incarnate Word University, the Southland Conference champion.
Several teams with Cinderella potential could make a deep run. Eastern Washington University, the Big Sky runner-up, has a dynamic passing attack led by quarterback Eric Barriere. Jacksonville State University, the ASUN champion, has a physical defense that has caused opponents fits all season.
The playoffs begin with the First Round on November 24th, followed by the Second Round on December 1st. The Quarterfinals take place on December 8th, while the Semifinals are scheduled for December 15th. The National Championship Game will be held on January 6th, 2025, at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.
“This year’s FCS Playoffs are shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory,” said FCS analyst Scott Frost. “There are several teams capable of making a deep run, and the upsets could come from anywhere.”
NDSU remains the heavy favorite to win the title, but other programs like Montana State and Incarnate Word have shown they can compete at the highest level. Eastern Washington and Jacksonville State could also surprise, while an FCS Cinderella story is always a possibility.
The 2024 FCS Playoffs promise to be an electrifying tournament with a wide-open field and plenty of potential for upsets. As the teams prepare to battle for the National Championship, college football fans across the nation are eagerly awaiting the start of the action.
