FCS Football Preview: Championship Contenders Begin Their Journey as 2024 Season Kicks Off

The long offseason has finally concluded as the 2024 FCS season officially begins with an action-packed Week 1 schedule featuring 94 games involving FCS programs from Thursday through Sunday. The opening week slate includes the most matchups of any week this season, headlined by several intriguing FCS-vs-FCS contests and a record 59 games against FBS opponents. As defending national champion South Dakota State begins its quest for a third consecutive title and perennial powerhouse North Dakota State debuts under new head coach Tim Polasek, the race toward Frisco, Texas commences with compelling matchups across the subdivision.

Week 1 provides the first opportunity to evaluate championship contenders, determine which teams have successfully addressed offseason personnel changes, and identify potential breakthrough programs that could reshape the playoff picture come November. With 17 teams ranked in the Stats Perform FCS Preseason Top 25 facing FBS opponents, the opening weekend features numerous opportunities for statement victories against higher-level competition. Meanwhile, several ranked-vs-ranked FCS matchups offer early tests that could significantly impact postseason positioning.

As teams prepare to kick off the subdivision's 47th season, the competitive landscape appears more balanced than in recent memory, with traditional powers facing legitimate challenges from emerging programs. The transfer portal has dramatically reshaped several rosters, creating intriguing storylines across the major conferences and setting the stage for what promises to be another compelling season of FCS football.

The Elite Tier: Championship Favorites

1. South Dakota State Jackrabbits

The two-time defending national champions enter 2024 as the clear team to beat, returning Walter Payton Award-winning quarterback Mark Gronowski and several key contributors from last season's dominant 15-0 squad. Head coach Jimmy Rogers, entering his second season after a seamless transition from John Stiegelmeier, maintains remarkable staff continuity with offensive coordinator Zach Lujan and defensive coordinator Jim Panagos both returning to guide a program seeking an unprecedented third consecutive title.

South Dakota State's offensive firepower should remain explosive, with Gronowski surrounded by weapons including All-American running back Amar Johnson and receivers Jaxon and Jadon Janke, who received additional eligibility through COVID waivers. The Jackrabbits' defense, which allowed just 12.7 points per game last season, returns seven starters including All-American linebacker Adam Bock, whose return from injury provides an additional boost to an already dominant unit.

The Jackrabbits open their season with a challenging trip to Iowa, where they'll face a Hawkeyes team that has struggled offensively but typically fields one of the nation's stingiest defenses. South Dakota State narrowly lost 7-3 in their last visit to Iowa City in 2022, and an upset victory would immediately establish them as favorites to complete the championship three-peat.

2. North Dakota State Bison

The perennial powerhouse begins a new era under head coach Tim Polasek, who returns to Fargo after serving as offensive coordinator at Wyoming. The Bison seek to reclaim their championship throne after reaching the semifinals last season before falling to eventual champion South Dakota State. Quarterback Cam Miller returns for his senior season after accumulating a 31-9 record as a starter, providing stability during the coaching transition.

North Dakota State's championship pedigree remains intact despite the coaching change, with the program seeking its 10th national title since 2011. The offensive line returns four starters, providing protection for Miller and running lanes for TK Marshall, who emerged as a playmaker last season. Defensively, the Bison return six starters including All-Americans Eli Mostaert and Jake Kava, who anchor one of the subdivision's most formidable defensive fronts.

The Bison face the FCS's most challenging Week 1 test, traveling to Boulder to face Deion Sanders' Colorado Buffaloes in a Thursday night primetime matchup on ESPN. North Dakota State has historically performed well against FBS competition, owning a 9-4 all-time record in such matchups, though Colorado represents their highest-profile opponent in recent memory. The contest provides an immediate opportunity for Polasek to demonstrate the program's continued excellence despite the coaching transition.

3. Montana Grizzlies

Montana enters 2024 with national championship aspirations after reaching the semifinals last season before falling to South Dakota State. The Grizzlies return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Clifton McDowell who emerged as the clear starter midway through last season after transferring from Louisiana. Head coach Bobby Hauck, entering his sixth season in his second stint at Montana, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Brent Pease and defensive coordinator Roger Cooper both returning.

The Grizzlies' defensive excellence should remain their foundation, with seven starters returning from a unit that allowed just 15.8 points per game last season. All-American safety Jace Klucewich returns to anchor the secondary after leading the team with four interceptions in 2023. Offensively, Montana adds several key transfers including wide receiver Sawyer Racanelli (Washington) and running back Eli Gillman (Northern Iowa) to complement McDowell's dual-threat capabilities.

Montana opens its season with a home date against Missouri State, providing an opportunity to build momentum before their challenging Big Sky schedule begins. The Grizzlies' balanced approach and championship pedigree make them legitimate contenders to reach Frisco, with their November 23 regular-season finale against rival Montana State potentially having significant playoff seeding implications.

4. Montana State Bobcats

Montana State enters 2024 seeking a return to the championship game after reaching the semifinals last season before falling to eventual runner-up South Dakota. The Bobcats return one of the FCS's most electric playmakers in quarterback Tommy Mellott, whose dual-threat capabilities make him a legitimate Walter Payton Award candidate when healthy. Head coach Brent Vigen, entering his fourth season in Bozeman, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Taylor Housewright and defensive coordinator Willie Mack Garza both returning.

The Bobcats' championship-caliber defense returns six starters from a unit that allowed just 17.4 points per game last season. All-American defensive end Brody Grebe returns after recording 11.5 sacks in 2023, while linebacker McCade O'Reilly provides experience in the middle level. Offensively, Montana State adds several key transfers including running back Jared White (Washington State) to complement Mellott's dynamic abilities in their run-heavy offensive scheme.

Montana State opens its season hosting Utah Tech, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference matchup with FBS opponent Portland State in Week 2. The Bobcats' physical style and balanced approach make them legitimate contenders to reach Frisco, with their November 23 regular-season finale against rival Montana potentially having significant playoff seeding implications.

5. South Dakota Coyotes

South Dakota enters 2024 with its highest preseason ranking in program history after reaching the quarterfinals last season before falling to North Dakota State. The Coyotes return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Aidan Bouman who passed for 3,312 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Bob Nielson, entering his ninth season in Vermillion, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Ted Schlafke and defensive coordinator Travis Johansen both returning.

The Coyotes' explosive offense should again be their calling card, with Bouman surrounded by weapons including All-American running back Travis Theis, who rushed for 1,059 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns its top four contributors, including Carter Bell who emerged as a playmaking threat with 56 receptions for 847 yards. Defensively, South Dakota adds several key transfers to address departures from a unit that improved significantly throughout the 2023 season.

South Dakota opens its season hosting Division II Northern State, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference matchup with Northern Iowa in Week 2. The Coyotes' explosive offense and improved defense make them legitimate contenders in the Missouri Valley Football Conference race, with their October 5 matchup against South Dakota State potentially having significant implications for the conference title and playoff seeding.

Championship Contenders

6. Villanova Wildcats

Villanova enters 2024 with championship aspirations after reaching the quarterfinals last season before falling to South Dakota State. The Wildcats return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by dual-threat quarterback Connor Watkins who accounted for 30 total touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Mark Ferrante, entering his eighth season at the helm, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Chris Boden and defensive coordinator Ola Adams both returning.

The Wildcats' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Watkins surrounded by weapons including All-CAA running back TD Ayo-Durojaiye, who rushed for 952 yards and seven touchdowns last season. The offensive line returns four starters, providing protection and continuity for an attack that averaged 33.2 points per game. Defensively, Villanova returns seven starters including All-American cornerback Isas Waxter, who recorded four interceptions and 14 pass breakups in 2023.

Villanova opens its season with an immediate test, hosting No. 25 Youngstown State in a rematch of last year's second-round playoff contest that the Wildcats won 45-28. Their challenging non-conference schedule also includes a matchup with Lehigh before entering Colonial Athletic Association play. The Wildcats' balanced approach and playoff experience make them legitimate contenders for both the CAA championship and a deep playoff run.

7. Weber State Wildcats

Weber State enters 2024 seeking to recapture the magic of their early playoff run last season, which saw them upset Northern Iowa before falling to eventual semifinalist Montana. The Wildcats return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by All-American running back Damon Bankston, who rushed for 1,365 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Mickey Mental, entering his second season, has shown remarkable ability to maintain the program's winning culture established under previous coach Jay Hill.

The Wildcats' physical offensive approach should remain effective, with Bankston running behind an offensive line that returns three starters from last season. The quarterback position features competition between Richie Munoz, who showed potential in limited action last season, and Colorado transfer Drew Carter. Defensively, Weber State returns eight starters from a unit that allowed just 19.1 points per game, highlighted by All-American safety Desmond Williams.

Weber State opens its season at FBS opponent Utah, providing an immediate challenge before a more manageable non-conference schedule that includes Western Oregon and Northern Iowa. The Wildcats' physical style and defensive excellence make them legitimate contenders in the competitive Big Sky Conference, with their balanced approach giving them upset potential in the playoffs against more highly-ranked opponents.

8. Sacramento State Hornets

Sacramento State enters 2024 seeking to reclaim the Big Sky championship after seeing their three-year conference title streak end last season. The Hornets return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Kaiden Bennett, who emerged as the starter midway through last season after transferring from Nevada. Head coach Andy Thompson, entering his second season after serving as defensive coordinator under Troy Taylor, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Bobby Fresques and defensive coordinator James Ward both returning.

The Hornets' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Bennett surrounded by weapons including All-Big Sky tight end Marshel Martin, who provides a reliable red-zone target. The running back rotation features Marcus Fulcher and Elijah Tau-Tolliver, who combined for over 1,500 rushing yards last season. Defensively, Sacramento State returns six starters from a unit that allowed 24.5 points per game, with All-American linebacker Armon Bailey anchoring the front seven.

Sacramento State opens its season with a challenging trip to FBS opponent San Jose State, providing an immediate test before a more manageable non-conference schedule. The Hornets' balanced attack and championship pedigree make them legitimate contenders in the competitive Big Sky Conference, with their October 12 matchup against Montana potentially having significant implications for the conference race.

9. Chattanooga Mocs

Chattanooga enters 2024 with championship aspirations after reaching the second round of the playoffs last season before falling to Furman. The Mocs return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Chase Artopoeus, who passed for 2,938 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Rusty Wright, entering his sixth season, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Joe Pizzo and defensive coordinator Lorenzo Ward both returning.

The Mocs' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Artopoeus surrounded by weapons including All-Southern Conference running back Gino Appleberry Jr., who rushed for 891 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns its top three contributors, led by Jamoi Mayes who recorded 58 receptions for 832 yards. Defensively, Chattanooga returns seven starters from a unit that allowed just 21.2 points per game, with All-American linebacker Kam Jones anchoring the front seven.

Chattanooga opens its season with a challenging trip to FBS opponent Tennessee, providing an immediate test before a more manageable non-conference schedule. The Mocs' balanced attack and improved defense make them legitimate contenders for the Southern Conference championship, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential deep playoff run.

10. North Dakota Fighting Hawks

North Dakota enters 2024 with heightened expectations after reaching the second round of the playoffs last season before falling to Montana. The Fighting Hawks return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Simon Romfo, who emerged as the starter midway through last season after Tommy Schuster's injury. Head coach Bubba Schweigert, entering his 11th season in Grand Forks, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Danny Freund and defensive coordinator Joel Schwenzfeier both returning.

The Fighting Hawks' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Romfo surrounded by weapons including All-Missouri Valley running back Gaven Ziebarth, who emerged as a playmaker with over 800 rushing yards in 2023. The receiving corps returns its top four contributors, providing continuity for an offense that averaged 28.7 points per game. Defensively, North Dakota returns eight starters from a unit that allowed just 19.8 points per game, with All-American safety Kadon Kauppinen anchoring the secondary.

North Dakota opens its season hosting Division II Bemidji State, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference matchup with Northern Arizona in Week 2. The Fighting Hawks' balanced approach and improved quarterback play make them legitimate contenders in the competitive Missouri Valley Football Conference, with their veteran leadership positioning them for another playoff appearance.

Playoff Contenders

11. Furman Paladins

Furman enters 2024 seeking to build upon their quarterfinal appearance last season, where they fell to eventual champion South Dakota State. The Paladins return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Tyler Huff, who accounted for 25 total touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Clay Hendrix, entering his eighth season, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Justin Roper and defensive coordinator Duane Vaughn both returning.

The Paladins' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Huff surrounded by weapons including All-Southern Conference running back Dominic Roberto, who rushed for 982 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns its top three contributors, providing continuity for an offense that averaged 31.2 points per game. Defensively, Furman returns six starters from a unit that allowed just 20.5 points per game, with All-American linebacker Braden Gilby anchoring the front seven.

Furman opens its season hosting Kennesaw State, providing an immediate test against a program transitioning to FBS next season. The Paladins' balanced attack and playoff experience make them legitimate contenders for the Southern Conference championship, with their veteran leadership positioning them for another potential deep playoff run.

12. Richmond Spiders

Richmond enters 2024 with championship aspirations after reaching the second round of the playoffs last season before falling to Albany. The Spiders return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Kyle Wickersham, who emerged as the starter last season and provided efficient leadership. Head coach Russ Huesman, entering his eighth season, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Billy Cosh and defensive coordinator Levern Belin both returning.

The Spiders' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Wickersham surrounded by weapons including All-CAA running back Savon Smith, who rushed for 736 yards and eight touchdowns last season. The offensive line returns four starters, providing protection and continuity for an attack that averaged 27.4 points per game. Defensively, Richmond returns seven starters from a unit that allowed just 19.8 points per game, with All-American safety Tyrek Funderburk anchoring the secondary.

Richmond opens its season hosting North Carolina A&T, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference schedule that includes a trip to Virginia. The Spiders' balanced approach and defensive excellence make them legitimate contenders in the competitive Colonial Athletic Association, with their veteran leadership positioning them for another playoff appearance.

13. Idaho Vandals

Idaho enters 2024 seeking to build upon their second-round playoff appearance last season, where they fell to Albany. The Vandals return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Jack Layne, who passed for 2,304 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Jason Eck, entering his third season in Moscow, has transformed the program into a legitimate Big Sky contender through exceptional recruiting and development.

The Vandals' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Layne surrounded by weapons including All-Big Sky running back Anthony Woods, who rushed for 915 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps adds Washington State transfer Orion Peters to complement returning starters Hayden Hatten and Mark Hamper. Defensively, Idaho returns six starters from a unit that allowed 23.8 points per game, with All-American linebacker Mathias Bertram anchoring the front seven.

Idaho opens its season hosting Division II Western Oregon, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference schedule that includes Oregon. The Vandals' balanced attack and improved defense make them legitimate contenders in the competitive Big Sky Conference, with their October 5 matchup against Montana potentially having significant implications for the conference race.

14. Incarnate Word Cardinals

Incarnate Word enters 2024 seeking a return to the playoffs after narrowly missing the field last season despite an 8-3 record. The Cardinals return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Zach Calzada, the former Texas A&M and Auburn signal-caller who passed for 3,754 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Clint Killough, promoted from offensive coordinator after G.J. Kinne's departure to Texas State, provides continuity for one of the FCS's most explosive offenses.

The Cardinals' offensive firepower should remain their calling card, with Calzada surrounded by weapons including All-American running back Brandon Porter, who accounted for over 1,500 all-purpose yards last season. The receiving corps returns its top three contributors, including Jarrell Wiley who recorded 63 receptions for 981 yards. Defensively, Incarnate Word addressed their main weakness through the transfer portal, adding four FBS defensive backs to bolster a unit that allowed 27.4 points per game.

Incarnate Word opens its season hosting NAIA opponent Texas College, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference schedule that includes Southeastern Louisiana. The Cardinals' explosive offense and transfer-bolstered defense make them legitimate contenders for the Southland Conference championship, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential return to the playoffs.

15. William & Mary Tribe

William & Mary enters 2024 seeking a return to the playoffs after narrowly missing the field last season despite a 7-4 record. The Tribe return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Darius Wilson, who accounted for 19 total touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Mike London, entering his sixth season in Williamsburg, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Christian Taylor and defensive coordinator Vincent Brown both returning.

The Tribe's balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Wilson surrounded by weapons including All-CAA running back Malachi Imoh, who rushed for 733 yards and seven touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns its top three contributors, providing continuity for an offense that averaged 29.7 points per game. Defensively, William & Mary returns six starters from a unit that allowed just 19.3 points per game, with All-American cornerback Jalen Jones anchoring the secondary.

William & Mary opens its season hosting VMI, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging CAA schedule. The Tribe's balanced attack and defensive excellence make them legitimate contenders in the competitive Colonial Athletic Association, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential return to the playoffs after last season's near miss.

16. Holy Cross Crusaders

Holy Cross enters 2024 seeking a fifth consecutive Patriot League championship and deeper playoff run after falling to New Hampshire in the first round last season. The Crusaders return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Joe Pesansky, who passed for 2,312 yards and 22 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Bob Chesney, entering his seventh season in Worcester, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Justin Roper and defensive coordinator Scott James both returning.

The Crusaders' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Pesansky surrounded by weapons including All-Patriot League running back Jordan Fuller, who rushed for 1,254 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns three of its top four contributors, providing continuity for an offense that averaged 31.8 points per game. Defensively, Holy Cross returns seven starters from a unit that allowed just 20.4 points per game, with All-American linebacker Jacob Dobbs anchoring the front seven.

Holy Cross opens its season with a challenging trip to FBS opponent Syracuse, providing an immediate test before a more manageable non-conference schedule. The Crusaders' balanced attack and championship pedigree make them clear favorites in the Patriot League, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential fifth consecutive conference title and deeper playoff run.

17. Lafayette Leopards

Lafayette enters 2024 with unprecedented expectations after securing the program's first Patriot League championship since 2013 last season. The Leopards return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Dean DeNobile, who emerged as the starter midway through last season and provided efficient leadership. Head coach John Troxell, entering his third season in Easton, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator T.J. DiMuzio and defensive coordinator Mike Saint Germain both returning.

The Leopards' defensive excellence should remain their foundation, with eight starters returning from a unit that allowed just 16.8 points per game last season. All-American safety Saiku White returns after recording five interceptions and 73 tackles in 2023. Offensively, Lafayette returns four offensive linemen with starting experience, providing protection for DeNobile and running back Jamar Curtis, who rushed for 1,092 yards and 11 touchdowns last season.

Lafayette opens its season with a challenging trip to FBS opponent Buffalo, though the Bulls are coming off a 3-9 season and represent one of the more vulnerable FBS matchups on the Week 1 slate. The Leopards' defensive excellence and improved offensive efficiency make them legitimate contenders for another Patriot League championship, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential deeper playoff run.

18. UT Martin Skyhawks

UT Martin enters 2024 seeking a return to the playoffs after narrowly missing the field last season despite an 8-3 record. The Skyhawks return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Kinkead Dent, who passed for 2,378 yards and 22 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Jason Simpson, entering his 19th season in Martin, is the longest-tenured coach in the FCS and provides exceptional stability to the program.

The Skyhawks' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Dent surrounded by weapons including All-OVC running back Sam Franklin, who rushed for 1,068 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns three of its top four contributors, providing continuity for an offense that averaged 32.7 points per game. Defensively, UT Martin returns six starters from a unit that allowed just 21.5 points per game, with All-American safety JaQuez Akins anchoring the secondary.

UT Martin opens its season with a challenging trip to FBS opponent Memphis, providing an immediate test before a more manageable non-conference schedule. The Skyhawks' balanced attack and veteran leadership make them legitimate contenders for the Big South-OVC championship, with their experience positioning them for a potential return to the playoffs after last season's near miss.

19. Delaware Blue Hens

Delaware enters 2024 seeking a deeper playoff run after falling to Montana in the second round last season. The Blue Hens return significant production on both sides of the ball, though they must replace quarterback Zach Gwynn, with Rutgers transfer Gavin Wimsatt and sophomore Conor Fitzgerald competing for the starting role. Head coach Ryan Carty, entering his third season in Newark, maintains staff continuity with offensive coordinator Jared Ambrose and defensive coordinator Manny Rojas both returning.

The Blue Hens' offensive attack should remain among the CAA's most explosive units, with the new quarterback inheriting weapons including All-American running back Marcus Yarns, who rushed for 1,094 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns three of its top four contributors, including Jourdan Townsend who recorded 49 receptions for 724 yards. Defensively, Delaware returns seven starters from a unit that allowed 21.3 points per game, with All-CAA safety Nic Ware anchoring the secondary.

Delaware opens its season hosting Merrimack, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference matchup with Sacred Heart. The Blue Hens' offensive firepower and improved defense make them legitimate contenders in the competitive Colonial Athletic Association, with their veteran leadership positioning them for another potential playoff appearance before their impending move to the FBS level.

20. Youngstown State Penguins

Youngstown State enters 2024 seeking a deeper playoff run after reaching the second round last season before falling to Villanova. The Penguins return significant production on offense, highlighted by dynamic quarterback Beau Brungard, who emerged as the starter midway through last season and provided dual-threat capabilities. Head coach Doug Phillips, entering his fifth season in Youngstown, has steadily rebuilt the program into a Missouri Valley Football Conference contender.

The Penguins' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Brungard surrounded by weapons including All-MVFC running back Tyshon King, who rushed for 994 yards and eight touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns its top three contributors, providing continuity for an offense that averaged 28.7 points per game. Defensively, Youngstown State must replace 12 of their top 13 tacklers from last season, creating significant questions heading into their season opener.

Youngstown State faces an immediate test in Week 1, traveling to face No. 6 Villanova in a rematch of last year's second-round playoff contest. The Penguins' offensive firepower gives them upset potential, though their defensive questions must be addressed for them to contend in the challenging Missouri Valley Football Conference. Their October 12 matchup against North Dakota State and October 26 contest with South Dakota State will provide opportunities to demonstrate their championship credentials.

Final Top 25 Spots

21. Southeast Missouri Redhawks

Southeast Missouri enters 2024 seeking a fourth consecutive playoff appearance after falling to Nicholls in the first round last season. The Redhawks return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Paxton DeLaurent, who passed for 2,788 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Tom Matukewicz, entering his 11th season in Cape Girardeau, has built a consistent winner that remains the team to beat in the Big South-OVC Association.

The Redhawks' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with DeLaurent surrounded by weapons including All-American wide receiver Ryan Flournoy, who recorded 64 receptions for 940 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. The running back position features Geno Hess, who rushed for 1,081 yards and 17 touchdowns. Defensively, SEMO returns six starters from a unit that allowed 24.7 points per game, with All-American linebacker Bryce Norman anchoring the front seven.

Southeast Missouri opens its season with a challenging trip to FBS opponent Southern Illinois, providing an immediate test before a more manageable non-conference schedule. The Redhawks' balanced attack and championship pedigree make them favorites in the Big South-OVC, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential fourth consecutive playoff appearance.

22. Eastern Kentucky Colonels

Eastern Kentucky enters 2024 seeking a playoff appearance after narrowly missing the field last season despite an 8-3 record. The Colonels return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Parker McKinney, who received an additional year of eligibility through a medical hardship waiver after passing for 3,032 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Walt Wells, entering his fifth season in Richmond, has steadily rebuilt the program into a United Athletic Conference contender.

The Colonels' offensive firepower should remain their calling card, with McKinney surrounded by weapons including All-UAC running back Joshua Carter, who rushed for 937 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns three of its top four contributors, providing continuity for an offense that averaged 32.4 points per game. Defensively, Eastern Kentucky returns seven starters from a unit that allowed 22.8 points per game, with All-American safety Joseph Sayles anchoring the secondary.

Eastern Kentucky opens its season hosting Western Carolina, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference schedule that includes a trip to FBS opponent Miami (Ohio). The Colonels' offensive explosiveness and veteran leadership make them legitimate contenders in the United Athletic Conference, with their experience positioning them for a potential playoff appearance after last season's near miss.

23. Mercer Bears

Mercer enters 2024 seeking a breakthrough playoff appearance after narrowly missing the field last season despite a 7-4 record. The Bears return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Lance Wise, who passed for 2,567 yards and 21 touchdowns while adding 464 rushing yards and six scores on the ground in 2023. Head coach Jeff Choate, arriving from Texas where he served as co-defensive coordinator, brings a defensive mindset to a program that has typically featured explosive offenses.

The Bears' balanced offensive approach should remain effective, with Wise surrounded by weapons including All-Southern Conference running back Al Wooten II, who rushed for 823 yards and nine touchdowns last season. The receiving corps returns its top three contributors, including Devron Harper who recorded 63 receptions for 897 yards. Defensively, Mercer returns eight starters from a unit that allowed 25.7 points per game, with All-SoCon safety TJ Moore anchoring the secondary.

Mercer opens its season with a challenging trip to FBS opponent Auburn, providing an immediate test before a more manageable non-conference schedule. The Bears' balanced attack and coaching upgrade make them legitimate contenders in the Southern Conference, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential first playoff appearance since transitioning to the FCS level.

24. Northern Iowa Panthers

Northern Iowa enters 2024 seeking a return to the playoffs after a disappointing 6-5 campaign last season. The Panthers return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Theo Day, who passed for 2,547 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2023. Head coach Mark Farley, entering his 24th season in Cedar Falls, is the MVFC's longest-tenured coach and provides exceptional stability to the program.

The Panthers' balanced offensive approach should be more productive in 2024, with Day surrounded by weapons including All-MVFC tight end Layne Pryor, who emerged as a reliable target with 49 receptions for 677 yards. The running back position features Sam Schnee, who showed promise in limited action last season. Defensively, Northern Iowa returns seven starters from a unit that allowed 22.1 points per game, with All-American linebacker Spencer Cuvelier anchoring the front seven.

Northern Iowa opens its season hosting Valparaiso, providing an opportunity to build momentum before a challenging non-conference schedule that includes a trip to Weber State. The Panthers' balanced attack and defensive improvement make them legitimate contenders in the competitive Missouri Valley Football Conference, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential return to the playoffs.

25. Southeastern Louisiana Lions

Southeastern Louisiana enters 2024 seeking a return to the playoffs after a 5-6 campaign last season marked by close losses and injuries. The Lions return significant production on both sides of the ball, highlighted by quarterback Eli Sawyer, who passed for 2,418 yards and 16 touchdowns despite missing time with injuries in 2023. Head coach Frank Scelfo, entering his seventh season in Hammond, has established a consistent offensive identity that remains among the Southland Conference's most explosive units.

The Lions' offensive firepower should remain their calling card, with Sawyer surrounded by weapons including All-Southland running back Harlan Dixon, who accounted for over 1,000 all-purpose yards last season. The receiving corps returns four of its top five contributors, providing continuity for an offense that averaged 30.5 points per game. Defensively, Southeastern Louisiana returns eight starters from a unit that allowed 28.7 points per game, with All-American linebacker Herman Smith anchoring the front seven.

Southeastern Louisiana opens its season hosting Jacksonville State, providing an immediate test against a program transitioning to FBS. The Lions' offensive explosiveness and improved health make them legitimate contenders in the Southland Conference, with their veteran leadership positioning them for a potential return to the playoffs after last season's disappointment.

Conclusion

As the 2024 FCS season kicks off with an action-packed Week 1 schedule, the road to Frisco begins for 128 programs with championship aspirations. The opening weekend provides the first opportunity to evaluate title contenders, identify breakthrough teams, and witness potential upsets that could reshape the national landscape. From North Dakota State's high-profile visit to Colorado to multiple ranked-vs-ranked FCS matchups, the season's first week offers compelling storylines across the subdivision.

South Dakota State's quest for a third consecutive national championship, North Dakota State's transition under new head coach Tim Polasek, and the emergence of programs like Montana, Montana State, and South Dakota as legitimate title contenders create fascinating narratives entering the season. With unprecedented competitive balance across the FCS, Week 1 represents just the beginning of what promises to be another memorable championship chase in college football's most competitive subdivision.