What is FCS in College Football and Why Does It Feel Like a Secret Society?

What is FCS in College Football and Why Does It Feel Like a Secret Society?

College football in the United States is a cultural phenomenon, with millions of fans tuning in every weekend to watch their favorite teams battle it out on the gridiron. But while the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) often steals the spotlight, there’s another level of college football that operates somewhat in the shadows: the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). What is FCS in college football, and why does it feel like a secret society that only the most dedicated fans truly understand? Let’s dive into the world of FCS football, exploring its structure, significance, and the unique charm that sets it apart from its more glamorous counterpart.


The Basics: What is FCS?

The Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) is the second-highest level of college football in the United States, sitting just below the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). While FBS teams compete in high-profile bowl games and the College Football Playoff, FCS teams vie for a national championship through a 24-team playoff system. The FCS is home to over 120 teams, many of which are smaller schools with passionate fan bases and rich football traditions.

Unlike the FBS, where the national champion is determined by a combination of rankings and a playoff system, the FCS champion is crowned through a single-elimination tournament. This format ensures that every game matters, and underdogs often have a chance to make a deep run, creating a sense of unpredictability and excitement that is sometimes missing in the FBS.


The Structure of FCS Football

The FCS is divided into several conferences, each with its own unique identity and competitive landscape. Some of the most notable conferences include:

  • Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC): Often considered the toughest conference in FCS football, the MVFC features powerhouse programs like North Dakota State and South Dakota State.
  • Big Sky Conference: Known for its wide-open, high-scoring games, the Big Sky is home to teams like Montana and Eastern Washington.
  • Colonial Athletic Association (CAA): A conference with a strong East Coast presence, the CAA includes teams like James Madison (before their move to FBS) and Villanova.
  • Southern Conference (SoCon): A historic conference with a deep football tradition, the SoCon features teams like Furman and Chattanooga.

Each conference has its own scheduling and championship structure, but all roads lead to the FCS playoffs, where the best teams from across the country compete for the ultimate prize.


The Charm of FCS Football

While FCS football may not have the same level of national exposure as the FBS, it has a charm and authenticity that many fans find irresistible. Here are a few reasons why FCS football holds a special place in the hearts of its supporters:

1. Underdog Stories

FCS football is the land of underdogs. With fewer resources and less media attention than FBS programs, FCS teams often have to fight harder for recognition. This creates a sense of camaraderie and resilience that resonates with fans. Every year, there are stories of small schools making improbable runs in the playoffs, capturing the imagination of college football enthusiasts.

2. Community and Tradition

Many FCS programs are deeply rooted in their communities. Schools like North Dakota State and Montana have fan bases that are as passionate as any in the country. The traditions and rivalries in FCS football are often passed down through generations, creating a sense of continuity and pride that is hard to replicate.

3. Accessible Game Day Experience

Attending an FCS game is often a more intimate and affordable experience than an FBS game. Fans can get closer to the action, and the atmosphere is often more family-friendly. For many, this makes FCS football a more enjoyable and accessible way to experience college football.

4. Player Development

The FCS has been a launching pad for many NFL careers. Players like Cooper Kupp (Eastern Washington) and Jimmy Garoppolo (Eastern Illinois) honed their skills in the FCS before making it to the big leagues. For fans who enjoy scouting future stars, FCS football offers a treasure trove of talent.


The Challenges Facing FCS Football

Despite its many strengths, FCS football faces several challenges that threaten its long-term viability. These include:

1. Financial Pressures

FCS programs often operate on tight budgets, making it difficult to compete with FBS schools in terms of facilities, coaching salaries, and recruiting. This financial disparity can make it challenging for FCS teams to retain top talent and maintain competitive programs.

2. Media Exposure

While FBS games are broadcast on major networks, FCS games often struggle to find a national audience. This lack of exposure can make it difficult for FCS programs to attract recruits and build their brand.

3. The Transfer Portal

The rise of the transfer portal has made it easier for FCS players to move up to FBS programs. While this can be a great opportunity for individual players, it can also weaken FCS teams and make it harder for them to build sustained success.


The Future of FCS Football

Despite these challenges, the future of FCS football remains bright. The passion of its fans, the quality of its competition, and the unique charm of its game day experience ensure that FCS football will continue to thrive. As the landscape of college football evolves, the FCS will need to adapt, but its core values of community, tradition, and resilience will remain intact.


  1. What is the difference between FBS and FCS in college football?

    • The primary difference lies in the level of competition and the postseason structure. FBS teams compete in bowl games and the College Football Playoff, while FCS teams participate in a 24-team playoff to determine the national champion.
  2. Can FCS teams compete against FBS teams?

    • Yes, FCS teams often schedule games against FBS opponents, usually for financial reasons. While FCS teams are considered underdogs in these matchups, they occasionally pull off stunning upsets.
  3. Who are some notable NFL players who came from FCS programs?

    • Notable FCS alumni include Cooper Kupp (Eastern Washington), Jimmy Garoppolo (Eastern Illinois), and Darius Leonard (South Carolina State).
  4. How does the FCS playoff system work?

    • The FCS playoff system is a single-elimination tournament featuring 24 teams. The top eight teams receive first-round byes, and the remaining teams compete in the opening round. The tournament culminates in the FCS National Championship Game.
  5. Why is FCS football less popular than FBS football?

    • FCS football receives less media coverage and has smaller fan bases compared to FBS football. Additionally, the financial resources and facilities of FCS programs are often not on par with those of FBS programs, which can impact the level of competition and overall appeal.