As November kicks off, the stakes in FCS football rise significantly. Every game is essential, impacting playoff positions and conference titles. Here’s a detailed look at the key FCS matchups that will define the postseason landscape during this crucial month.
Key November FCS Football Games Impacting Playoffs and Conference Races
Week 10 Highlights
- Gardner-Webb at Tennessee Tech
- Mercer at Furman
- Dartmouth at Harvard
- Alabama State at Prairie View A&M
- Youngstown State at North Dakota State
- Tarleton State at Abilene Christian
- North Dakota at South Dakota
- North Carolina Central at Howard
- Jackson State at Florida A&M
These matchups are critical, as they will shake up the conference standings. Notably, Jackson State is fresh off its first loss of the season and is dealing with quarterback injuries. In contrast, Florida A&M is looking to build on a positive streak with consecutive victories.
Upcoming Week 11 Games
- New Hampshire at Monmouth
- Southern Illinois at Youngstown State
- North Dakota State at North Dakota
- South Dakota State at South Dakota
- Mercer at Western Carolina
The standout matchup is Mercer versus Western Carolina. This could be decisive in the Southern Conference championship race. Southern Illinois and Youngstown State will also face off, as both teams contend for playoff spots.
Week 12 Matchups to Watch
- South Carolina State at North Carolina Central
- South Dakota at Southern Illinois
- Rhode Island at Maine
- Illinois State at South Dakota State
- UC Davis at Montana State
Week 12 promises potential upsets, particularly the matchup between South Carolina State and North Carolina Central. Both teams aim to solidify their playoff standings. Additionally, UC Davis faces Montana State in a critical contest for a first-round bye.
Week 13 Rivalries and Implications
- Harvard at Yale
- Lehigh at Lafayette
- Southern Illinois at Illinois State
- Maine at New Hampshire
- South Carolina State at Delaware State
The final week features heated rivalries that can dramatically affect playoff seedings. Harvard versus Yale might decide postseason rankings, while Maine at New Hampshire could serve as an elimination game for both teams. Similarly, South Carolina State’s clash with Delaware State may determine the MEAC champion.
As FCS football enters its final month, every game counts. Teams are keenly aware of the playoff implications and the fierce competition ahead. Be sure to keep an eye on these essential matchups that will shape this season’s playoff picture.
