Week 12 FCS Football Top 25: Title Contenders Emerge as Regular Season Nears Conclusion

As the FCS regular season approaches its final weekend, Week 12 delivered several defining moments that have dramatically shaped both conference races and playoff positioning. Montana State secured a crucial 30-28 victory over UC Davis in a top-5 showdown that clinched at least a share of the Big Sky title, while North Dakota State continued its dominance with a 59-21 dismantling of Missouri State. In the UAC, Abilene Christian claimed the conference's automatic bid with a thrilling 35-31 victory over Tarleton State, and Richmond secured at least a share of the CAA championship with a hard-fought 24-21 win over Hampton.

The Week 12 results have provided significant clarity to the playoff picture with just one week remaining before Selection Sunday. North Dakota State and Montana State have firmly established themselves as the favorites for the top two seeds, while South Dakota State, South Dakota, and UC Davis remain in the conversation for top-five positioning. Several significant upsets – including Monmouth over Villanova, New Hampshire over Stony Brook, and Tennessee Tech over UT Martin – have created chaos in the middle of the rankings while dramatically reshaping several conference races.

With the FCS Selection Committee set to reveal the 24-team playoff field next Sunday, the final weekend of regular season action takes on heightened significance for teams on the bubble. The Montana State-UC Davis showdown lived up to its billing as the Game of the Week, while Abilene Christian's victory over Tarleton State secured the program's first-ever Division I playoff berth. As we enter the final week of the regular season, the championship picture has gained remarkable clarity while still maintaining compelling storylines across multiple conferences.

The Elite Tier: Championship Favorites

1. North Dakota State Bison (10-1, 7-0 MVFC) [Previous: 1]

North Dakota State continued its dominant conference run with an emphatic 59-21 victory over Missouri State, extending their winning streak to eight games while securing at least a share of the Missouri Valley Football Conference championship. The Bison were virtually unstoppable offensively, amassing over 500 total yards while scoring on nine of their eleven possessions. Quarterback Cam Miller continued his outstanding season, orchestrating an efficient offensive performance before reserves took over in the second half.

Head coach Matt Entz's program continues to demonstrate championship-level execution in all three phases. Their rushing attack was particularly impressive against Missouri State, generating 364 yards while averaging 9.6 yards per carry. Defensively, the Bison limited the Bears' typically productive offense despite surrendering more points than usual. With the victory, NDSU maintains its position as the clear favorite for the top overall seed in the FCS playoffs.

North Dakota State travels to South Dakota in Week 13 for a matchup that could potentially decide the outright MVFC championship. The Bison have already secured at least a share of the conference title and the automatic bid via tiebreakers, but a victory would remove any doubt about their dominance in college football's toughest FCS conference. With their championship pedigree and consistent excellence, North Dakota State remains the team to beat in the subdivision.

2. Montana State Bobcats (11-0, 7-0 Big Sky) [Previous: 2]

Montana State secured perhaps its most significant victory of the season, defeating fourth-ranked UC Davis 30-28 in a thrilling contest that clinched at least a share of the Big Sky championship and the conference's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs. The Bobcats built a seemingly comfortable 30-10 lead before withstanding a furious UC Davis comeback that included 20 unanswered fourth-quarter points. Linebacker McCade O'Reilly made the defensive play of the game, intercepting a potential game-tying two-point conversion with just 34 seconds remaining.

Head coach Brent Vigen's program continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience in pressure situations. Quarterback Tommy Mellott delivered another efficient performance, completing 18-of-25 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns despite facing a stingy UC Davis defense. Running back Julius Davis provided offensive balance with 91 rushing yards and a touchdown, though the Bobcats were held to a season-low 159 rushing yards after averaging over 330 yards per game entering the contest.

Montana State hosts Montana in Week 13 for the annual Brawl of the Wild rivalry game, looking to complete a perfect regular season and solidify its position for a top-two seed in the FCS playoffs. The Bobcats' balanced approach and championship pedigree make them one of the clear favorites heading into the postseason, with home-field advantage through the semifinals now firmly secured with their victory over UC Davis.

3. South Dakota State Jackrabbits (9-2, 6-1 MVFC) [Previous: 3]

South Dakota State continued its late-season surge with a dominant 41-10 victory over Southern Illinois, extending their winning streak to four games while maintaining position in the Missouri Valley Football Conference race. The two-time defending national champions were relentless on both sides of the ball, building a 24-3 halftime lead before pulling away in the second half. The comprehensive victory further establishes SDSU as one of the clear championship favorites heading into the final week of the regular season.

Head coach Jimmy Rogers' program continues to demonstrate the championship pedigree that has made them the standard in FCS football. Their defense limited Southern Illinois to just 10 points and 285 total yards, generating consistent pressure while forcing multiple turnovers. Offensively, the Jackrabbits maintained their balanced approach with over 450 total yards, showcasing their versatility and depth as they prepare for another playoff run.

South Dakota State travels to Indiana State in Week 13, looking to build additional momentum before the playoffs. The Jackrabbits remain positioned for a potential top-four seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide home-field advantage through the quarterfinals. Their championship experience and improving play make them one of the most dangerous teams in the subdivision, with few opponents eager to face them in the postseason.

4. South Dakota Coyotes (8-2, 6-1 MVFC) [Previous: 5]

South Dakota secured a crucial road victory with a 42-36 win at North Dakota, maintaining their position in the Missouri Valley Football Conference race while severely damaging the Fighting Hawks' playoff hopes. The Coyotes continued their offensive excellence, amassing over 450 total yards while scoring touchdowns on six of their first eight possessions. Quarterback Aidan Bouman delivered another efficient performance, passing for multiple touchdowns while the ground game provided consistent balance.

Head coach Bob Nielson's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency on both sides of the ball. Their offense has now scored 40+ points in five of their last six games, showcasing explosiveness while maintaining efficiency. Defensively, the Coyotes showed some vulnerability against North Dakota's passing attack but made critical stops when needed most, including a fourth-down stand in the final minutes to preserve the victory.

South Dakota hosts North Dakota State in Week 13 in a matchup that will likely determine the outright MVFC champion and significantly impact playoff seeding. The Coyotes remain positioned for a potential top-five seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide a first-round bye and home-field advantage in the second round. Their balanced approach and offensive firepower make them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts.

5. UC Davis Aggies (9-2, 6-1 Big Sky) [Previous: 4]

UC Davis suffered its first conference loss of the season, falling 30-28 at Montana State in a thrilling contest that likely decided the Big Sky championship. The Aggies showed remarkable resilience, erasing a 30-10 deficit with 20 unanswered fourth-quarter points before their potential game-tying two-point conversion was intercepted with just 34 seconds remaining. Despite the defeat, UC Davis reinforced their status as legitimate championship contenders with their furious comeback against the undefeated Bobcats.

Head coach Tim Plough's program continues to demonstrate championship-level resilience in challenging situations. Running back Lan Larison delivered an outstanding individual performance, rushing for 112 yards and a touchdown while adding eight receptions for 109 yards. Quarterback Miles Hastings engineered the fourth-quarter comeback with several clutch throws, though his two earlier turnovers proved costly in the overall outcome.

UC Davis hosts Sacramento State in Week 13 for the Causeway Classic, looking to secure a victory that would likely guarantee a top-eight seed in the FCS playoffs. The Aggies remain positioned for a first-round bye despite the loss to Montana State, with their impressive body of work – including victories over Montana and Idaho – supporting their case. Their balanced approach and proven ability to compete with the subdivision's elite make them dangerous in the postseason despite this setback.

Championship Contenders

6. Incarnate Word Cardinals (9-2, 6-0 Southland) [Previous: 6]

Incarnate Word secured a crucial road victory with a 27-20 win at Stephen F. Austin, clinching at least a share of the Southland Conference championship while extending their winning streak to five games. The Cardinals demonstrated championship resilience, overcoming a hostile environment to maintain their perfect conference record. Their defense delivered in critical moments, generating three fourth-quarter turnovers that proved decisive in the hard-fought victory.

Head coach Clint Killough's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency in conference play, having outscored Southland opponents by an average margin of 38.5 to 22.0 points per game. Their defense, which has been opportunistic all season, recorded six sacks and forced three turnovers against Stephen F. Austin. The Cardinals' balanced offensive approach remains effective, though they were held below their season average in points for the second consecutive game.

Incarnate Word hosts Northwestern State in Week 13, looking to complete a perfect conference schedule and solidify their position for a potential top-eight seed in the FCS playoffs. The Cardinals have already secured the Southland's automatic bid via tiebreakers and remain one of the most dangerous offensive teams in the subdivision heading into the postseason.

7. Mercer Bears (9-2, 6-1 SoCon) [Previous: 7]

Mercer suffered its most lopsided defeat of the season, falling 52-7 at FBS Alabama in a non-conference matchup that will have minimal impact on their playoff positioning. The Bears, who had already clinched the Southern Conference's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs, faced an overwhelming talent disadvantage against one of the nation's top FBS programs. Despite the defeat, Mercer's impressive conference resume and automatic qualification status keep them firmly positioned as championship contenders.

Head coach Mike Jacobs' program had established themselves as one of the FCS's most consistent teams before this expected defeat against superior competition. Their defense, which had been dominant against FCS opponents, struggled against Alabama's explosive offense, but those challenges won't translate to the subdivision level. Mercer's balanced offensive approach was similarly stifled by the Crimson Tide's defensive talent.

Mercer hosts VMI in Week 13, looking to build momentum before the playoffs begin. The Bears remain positioned for a potential top-eight seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide a first-round bye and home-field advantage in the second round. Their balanced approach and conference championship pedigree make them dangerous in the postseason despite this non-conference setback.

8. Idaho Vandals (8-3, 5-2 Big Sky) [Previous: 8]

Idaho secured a crucial conference victory with a 31-24 win over Weber State, maintaining their position in the Big Sky hierarchy while significantly enhancing their playoff resume. The Vandals demonstrated impressive resilience, building a 24-3 lead before withstanding a furious Weber State comeback attempt in the second half. The victory solidifies Idaho's position as one of the Big Sky's elite programs while likely securing a playoff seed with one week remaining.

Head coach Jason Eck's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency on both sides of the ball. Their defense limited Weber State to just 85 rushing yards while generating consistent pressure on Wildcats quarterback Richie Munoz. Offensively, the Vandals maintained their balanced approach with over 400 total yards, showcasing their versatility as they prepare for the postseason.

Idaho hosts Northern Colorado in Week 13, looking to build additional momentum before the playoffs. The Vandals remain positioned for a potential top-eight seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide a first-round bye and home-field advantage in the second round. Their physical style and balanced approach make them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts.

9. Richmond Spiders (9-2, 6-0 CAA) [Previous: 11]

Richmond secured at least a share of the Colonial Athletic Association championship with a hard-fought 24-21 victory over Hampton, extending their conference winning streak to six games while maintaining their perfect CAA record. Running back Zach Palmer-Smith delivered an outstanding individual performance, rushing for 166 yards and two touchdowns on 27 carries. The victory positions the Spiders as clear favorites for the CAA's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs with one week remaining in the regular season.

Head coach Russ Huesman's program continues to demonstrate championship-level resilience in pressure situations. Their defense, which has been the team's strength throughout the season, limited Hampton to just 85 rushing yards while generating consistent pressure. The Spiders' balanced offensive approach remains effective, with Palmer-Smith providing the consistent ground production that has fueled their nine-game winning streak since an 0-2 start.

Richmond hosts William & Mary in Week 13, looking to complete a perfect conference schedule and secure the outright CAA championship. The Spiders have positioned themselves for a potential top-eight seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide a first-round bye and home-field advantage in the second round. Their championship experience and balanced approach make them dangerous in the postseason.

10. Montana Grizzlies (8-3, 4-2 Big Sky) [Previous: 10]

Montana secured a crucial victory with a 28-17 win over Portland State, maintaining their position in the playoff picture while building momentum heading into their rivalry showdown with Montana State. The Grizzlies demonstrated impressive resilience after falling behind early, outscoring Portland State 21-7 in the second half to secure their eighth victory of the season. The win likely guarantees Montana a playoff berth regardless of next week's outcome against the Bobcats.

Head coach Bobby Hauck's program continues to demonstrate championship-level execution when needed most. Their defense limited Portland State to just 78 rushing yards while generating consistent pressure on Vikings quarterback Dante Chachere. Offensively, the Grizzlies maintained their balanced approach with over 350 total yards, showcasing their versatility as they prepare for the postseason.

Montana travels to Montana State in Week 13 for the annual Brawl of the Wild rivalry game, looking to play spoiler against the undefeated Bobcats while potentially enhancing their playoff seeding. The Grizzlies remain positioned for a potential top-16 seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide home-field advantage in the first round. Their championship pedigree and balanced approach make them dangerous in the postseason despite their conference setbacks.

Playoff Contenders

11. Abilene Christian Wildcats (8-3, 6-1 UAC) [Previous: 14]

Abilene Christian secured a historic victory with a 35-31 win over Tarleton State, clinching the United Athletic Conference championship and the league's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs. Quarterback Maverick McIvor delivered an outstanding performance, completing 35-of-55 passes for 391 yards and three touchdowns while engineering a 12-play, 75-yard game-winning drive in the final minutes. The victory represents a milestone moment for the program, securing their first Division I conference championship and playoff berth.

Head coach Keith Patterson has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround in his second season, transforming the Wildcats from a middle-tier program into conference champions. Running back Sam Hicks provided offensive balance with 137 rushing yards and the game-winning touchdown, while the defense made critical stops when needed most, including in the red zone late in the fourth quarter. The victory extends ACU's conference winning streak to five games heading into the regular-season finale.

Abilene Christian travels to Stephen F. Austin in Week 13, with an opportunity to enhance their playoff resume and potentially secure a higher seed. The Wildcats have already locked up the UAC's automatic bid and could potentially host a first-round playoff game with another victory. Their balanced approach and momentum make them dangerous in the postseason regardless of seeding.

12. Southeast Missouri Redhawks (9-2, 5-1 Big South-OVC) [Previous: 12]

Southeast Missouri secured a wild 54-45 victory over Western Illinois, surviving a shootout to maintain their position atop the Big South-OVC Association standings with one week remaining. Quarterback Paxton DeLaurent delivered another prolific performance, passing for 375 yards and five total touchdowns while orchestrating an offense that amassed over 550 total yards. The victory keeps SEMO firmly on track for the conference's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs heading into their regular-season finale.

Head coach Tom Matukewicz's program continues to demonstrate remarkable offensive firepower, having scored 40+ points in five games this season. Running back Brandon Epton Jr. provided effective balance with 126 rushing yards and a touchdown, while the defense showed some concerning vulnerabilities that will need to be addressed before the postseason. The high-scoring victory extends SEMO's winning streak to four games heading into their critical regular-season finale.

Southeast Missouri hosts Tennessee State in Week 13 in a matchup that will likely decide the Big South-OVC championship and automatic playoff bid. The Redhawks have positioned themselves for a potential top-16 seed in the FCS playoffs with a victory, which would provide home-field advantage in the first round. Their offensive explosiveness makes them dangerous in the postseason despite their defensive inconsistency.

13. Tarleton State Texans (8-3, 4-2 UAC) [Previous: 13]

Tarleton State suffered a heartbreaking 35-31 defeat to Abilene Christian, falling short in their bid for the United Athletic Conference championship despite a strong overall performance. The Texans demonstrated impressive offensive balance, amassing 486 total yards behind quarterback Victor Gabalis's steady leadership. However, they struggled to finish drives in the red zone, settling for field goals when touchdowns would have potentially secured the victory.

Head coach Todd Whitten's program has established themselves as legitimate playoff contenders despite this setback, with their only losses coming against FBS TCU, Eastern Kentucky, and now conference champion Abilene Christian. Wide receiver Darius Cooper delivered another standout performance with six receptions for 140 yards and two touchdowns, while the defense generated consistent pressure despite surrendering 528 total yards.

Tarleton State hosts Central Arkansas in Week 13, looking to secure a victory that would likely guarantee an at-large playoff berth. The Texans remain firmly on the playoff bubble but would significantly enhance their resume with a ninth win against quality competition. Their balanced approach and offensive firepower make them dangerous in the postseason should they secure a bid.

14. Rhode Island Rams (9-2, 5-1 CAA) [Previous: 15]

Rhode Island secured a hard-fought 20-17 victory over UAlbany, rebounding from their first conference loss of the season while maintaining position in the competitive Colonial Athletic Association race. The Rams demonstrated impressive resilience after falling behind early, limiting UAlbany to just seven second-half points while their offense made enough plays in critical moments. The victory keeps Rhode Island firmly in contention for an at-large playoff berth regardless of next week's outcome.

Head coach Jim Fleming's program continues to demonstrate championship-level execution in pressure situations. Their defense limited UAlbany to just 287 total yards while generating consistent pressure and forcing two turnovers. Offensively, the Rams maintained their balanced approach despite being held below their season average in points, showcasing their versatility as they prepare for the postseason.

Rhode Island hosts Maine in Week 13 before potentially facing Richmond in a crucial regular-season finale that could have significant implications for both the CAA championship and playoff seeding. The Rams remain positioned for a potential top-16 seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide home-field advantage in the first round. Their balanced approach and experience make them dangerous in the postseason.

15. Illinois State Redbirds (8-3, 5-2 MVFC) [Previous: 17]

Illinois State secured another impressive Missouri Valley Football Conference victory with a 31-19 win over Indiana State, extending their winning streak to four games while solidifying their playoff positioning. The Redbirds demonstrated impressive balance on both sides of the ball, limiting Indiana State to just 95 rushing yards while their offense amassed over 400 total yards. The victory likely guarantees Illinois State a playoff berth regardless of next week's outcome.

Head coach Brock Spack's program continues to demonstrate championship-level execution when needed most. Their defense has been particularly impressive during their winning streak, forcing opponents into difficult passing situations while generating consistent pressure. Offensively, the Redbirds maintain a balanced approach behind quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse's steady leadership, providing multiple ways to attack defenses.

Illinois State hosts Southern Illinois in Week 13, looking to secure a ninth victory that would significantly enhance their playoff seeding. The Redbirds have positioned themselves for a potential top-16 seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide home-field advantage in the first round. Their physical style and balanced approach make them dangerous in the postseason regardless of seeding.

16. Villanova Wildcats (8-3, 5-2 CAA) [Previous: 9]

Villanova suffered a stunning upset loss with a 40-33 defeat against Monmouth, severely damaging their Colonial Athletic Association championship hopes while creating uncertainty about their playoff positioning. The Wildcats' typically reliable defense surrendered 430 total yards, including 358 through the air, while struggling to contain Monmouth quarterback Derek Robertson, who completed an astounding 22-of-23 passes. The surprising defeat snaps Villanova's three-game winning streak and creates significant questions heading into the regular-season finale.

Head coach Mark Ferrante's program has demonstrated concerning inconsistency in recent weeks, with their defensive vulnerabilities becoming increasingly apparent. Their offense performed admirably in defeat, amassing over 400 total yards behind quarterback Connor Watkins's steady leadership. However, the Wildcats' inability to generate critical stops against Monmouth's explosive offense ultimately proved decisive.

Villanova hosts Campbell in Week 13, facing what now becomes a must-win game to secure their playoff positioning. The Wildcats likely remain in position to receive an at-large bid regardless of next week's outcome, but their seeding has been significantly impacted by this upset defeat. Their offensive firepower keeps them dangerous in the postseason despite their defensive concerns.

17. Stony Brook Seawolves (8-3, 5-2 CAA) [Previous: 16]

Stony Brook suffered a heartbreaking 31-30 defeat against New Hampshire, falling victim to a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback that severely damages their Colonial Athletic Association championship hopes. The Seawolves built a commanding 30-10 lead early in the fourth quarter before surrendering 21 unanswered points in the final 12 minutes. The stunning defeat snaps Stony Brook's five-game winning streak and creates significant questions about their playoff positioning heading into the regular-season finale.

Head coach Chuck Priore's program has demonstrated concerning vulnerability in pressure situations despite their overall impressive season. Their defense, which had been the team's strength during their winning streak, surrendered several explosive plays during New Hampshire's fourth-quarter comeback. Offensively, the Seawolves were unable to maintain possession and run out the clock when holding a significant lead.

Stony Brook hosts Delaware in Week 13, facing what now becomes a must-win game to secure their playoff positioning. The Seawolves likely remain in position to receive an at-large bid regardless of next week's outcome, but their seeding has been significantly impacted by this upset defeat. Their balanced approach keeps them dangerous in the postseason despite this concerning late-game collapse.

18. Harvard Crimson (8-1, 5-0 Ivy) [Previous: 20]

Harvard secured a thrilling 31-28 victory over Penn, extending their winning streak to seven games while maintaining their perfect Ivy League record with one week remaining. The Crimson demonstrated impressive resilience in a back-and-forth contest, with quarterback Charles DePrima orchestrating an efficient offensive performance that included multiple touchdown passes. The victory keeps Harvard firmly on track for the Ivy League championship heading into their rivalry showdown with Yale.

Head coach Andrew Aurich's program continues to demonstrate championship-level execution in pressure situations. Their defense, despite surrendering more points than usual, made critical stops when needed most against a motivated Penn squad. Offensively, the Crimson maintained their balanced approach, showcasing their versatility as they prepare for their season finale.

Harvard travels to Yale in Week 13 for the 139th edition of "The Game," looking to secure the outright Ivy League championship. While Ivy League programs aren't eligible for the FCS playoffs, the Crimson have firmly established themselves as one of the subdivision's most impressive teams, with their only loss coming against Holy Cross in the season opener. Their balanced approach and championship pedigree make them worthy of their national ranking.

19. UT Martin Skyhawks (7-4, 5-2 Big South-OVC) [Previous: 18]

UT Martin suffered a stunning 10-9 upset loss to Tennessee Tech, severely damaging their Big South-OVC championship hopes while creating significant uncertainty about their playoff positioning. The Skyhawks' normally reliable offense was held to just 185 total yards and nine points against a motivated Golden Eagles defense that generated consistent pressure throughout the contest. The surprising defeat snaps UT Martin's five-game winning streak and creates significant questions heading into the regular-season finale.

Head coach Jason Simpson's program has demonstrated concerning offensive inconsistency in recent weeks, with their struggles against Tennessee Tech raising significant red flags heading into the postseason. Their defense performed admirably in defeat, limiting the Golden Eagles to just 10 points, but the Skyhawks' inability to generate offensive production ultimately proved decisive in the low-scoring affair.

UT Martin hosts Eastern Illinois in Week 13, facing what now becomes a must-win game to secure their playoff positioning. The Skyhawks likely remain on the playoff bubble regardless of next week's outcome, but their seeding has been significantly impacted by this upset defeat. Their defensive prowess keeps them dangerous in the postseason despite their offensive concerns.

20. Chattanooga Mocs (6-5, 5-2 SoCon) [Previous: 19]

Chattanooga suffered a disappointing 36-13 defeat to Samford, severely damaging their playoff hopes while likely ending their chances for an at-large berth. The Mocs' normally reliable offense was limited to just 177 total yards against a motivated Bulldogs defense that generated consistent pressure throughout the contest. The concerning defeat creates significant questions about Chattanooga's postseason prospects heading into their regular-season finale.

Head coach Rusty Wright's program has demonstrated concerning inconsistency throughout the season, with their impressive five-game conference winning streak now balanced by disappointing non-conference performances and this crucial late-season setback. Their defense, typically the team's strength, surrendered several explosive plays against Samford's balanced offensive attack.

Chattanooga hosts Western Carolina in Week 13, needing a victory to maintain any slim hopes for playoff consideration. The Mocs would finish 7-5 with a victory but would likely need significant chaos elsewhere to receive serious at-large consideration. Their season represents a remarkable turnaround from an 0-3 start, regardless of their ultimate playoff fate.

Final Top 25 Spots

21. ETSU Buccaneers (6-5, 4-3 SoCon) [Previous: 21]

ETSU suffered a heartbreaking 24-21 defeat to Furman, severely damaging their playoff hopes while likely ending their chances for an at-large berth. The Buccaneers demonstrated impressive resilience throughout the contest but ultimately fell short against a motivated Paladins squad seeking to play spoiler. The disappointing defeat creates significant questions about ETSU's postseason prospects heading into their regular-season finale.

Head coach George Quarles' program has demonstrated remarkable growth throughout the season but will likely fall short of the playoffs despite their improvement. Their defense, which had been the team's strength during their midseason surge, surrendered several critical conversions against Furman that proved decisive in the three-point defeat.

ETSU hosts The Citadel in Week 13, needing a victory to secure a winning record despite their likely exclusion from the playoff field. The Buccaneers would finish 7-5 with a victory but would need unprecedented chaos to receive serious at-large consideration with four conference losses. Their season represents significant progress regardless of their playoff fate.

22. Duquesne Dukes (8-2, 5-0 NEC) [Previous: 22]

Duquesne secured a dominant 42-21 victory over Wagner, extending their winning streak to seven games while maintaining their perfect Northeast Conference record heading into their regular-season finale. The Dukes demonstrated impressive balance on both sides of the ball, amassing over 400 total yards on offense while their defense limited Wagner to just 245 total yards. The comprehensive victory keeps Duquesne firmly on track for the NEC's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs.

Head coach Jerry Schmitt's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency in conference play, having outscored NEC opponents by an average margin of 35.8 to 17.2 points per game. Their defense has been particularly impressive during their winning streak, generating consistent pressure while creating multiple turnovers. Offensively, the Dukes maintain a balanced approach that has proven effective against conference competition.

Duquesne hosts Sacred Heart in Week 13 in a winner-take-all matchup for the NEC championship and automatic playoff bid. The Dukes have positioned themselves as clear favorites with their unblemished conference record but face their toughest test against a motivated Pioneers squad. Their balanced approach and momentum make them dangerous in the postseason should they secure the NEC's automatic bid.

23. Jackson State Tigers (9-2, 7-0 SWAC) [Previous: 23]

Jackson State secured a hard-fought 16-10 victory over Alabama State, extending their conference winning streak while remaining perfect in SWAC play heading into their regular-season finale. The Tigers' defense delivered a dominant performance, holding the Hornets to just four passing yards while recording nine tackles for loss. The grinding victory keeps Jackson State firmly on track for the SWAC championship game and potential Celebration Bowl berth.

Head coach T.C. Taylor's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency in conference play, having secured the SWAC East Division title with their perfect conference record. Quarterback JaCobian Morgan provided enough offensive production with 120 passing yards and two touchdowns, while the defense continued its dominant conference performance. The victory extends Jackson State's winning streak to seven games heading into their rivalry matchup with Alcorn State.

Jackson State hosts Alcorn State in Week 13 for the Soul Bowl, looking to complete a perfect conference schedule before facing Southern in the SWAC Championship Game on December 7. While SWAC champions aren't eligible for the FCS playoffs, the Tigers have established themselves as one of the subdivision's most consistent programs and clear favorites for the Celebration Bowl.

24. Northern Arizona Lumberjacks (7-4, 4-3 Big Sky) [Previous: 25]

Northern Arizona secured a dominant 44-3 victory over Northern Colorado, extending their winning streak to five games while significantly enhancing their playoff resume heading into the regular-season finale. The Lumberjacks were relentless on both sides of the ball, limiting Northern Colorado to just 176 total yards while their offense amassed over 500 total yards. The comprehensive victory keeps Northern Arizona firmly on the playoff bubble with one week remaining.

Head coach Brian Wright's program continues to demonstrate remarkable improvement throughout the season, having rebounded from a 2-4 start to position themselves for potential playoff consideration. Their defense has been particularly impressive during their winning streak, allowing just 13.0 points per game while generating consistent pressure and forcing multiple turnovers. Offensively, the Lumberjacks maintain a balanced approach that has proven increasingly effective as the season has progressed.

Northern Arizona hosts Idaho State in Week 13, needing a victory to secure an eighth win that would significantly strengthen their playoff case. The Lumberjacks would finish 8-4 with a victory, including 8-3 against FCS competition with a challenging strength of schedule. Their remarkable late-season surge makes them one of the most intriguing bubble teams heading into Selection Sunday.

25. Central Arkansas Bears (6-4, 3-3 UAC) [Previous: 24]

Central Arkansas suffered a disappointing 38-31 defeat to Southern Utah, severely damaging their playoff hopes while likely ending their chances for an at-large berth. The Bears' normally reliable defense surrendered 488 total yards to the Thunderbirds, including 254 on the ground, while struggling to contain Southern Utah's balanced offensive attack. The concerning defeat drops Central Arkansas to 6-4 overall and creates significant questions about their postseason prospects heading into their regular-season finale.

Head coach Nathan Brown's program has demonstrated concerning inconsistency throughout the season, with their impressive early-season victory over FBS Arkansas State now balanced by three conference losses that will likely keep them out of the playoff field. Their offense performed adequately in defeat, amassing over 400 total yards behind quarterback Will Collins's steady leadership, but their defensive vulnerabilities proved decisive.

Central Arkansas travels to Tarleton State in Week 13, needing a victory to maintain any slim hopes for playoff consideration. The Bears would finish 7-4 with a victory but would likely need unprecedented chaos to receive serious at-large consideration with three conference losses. Their FBS victory remains their most significant resume highlight regardless of their ultimate playoff fate.

Conclusion

As the FCS regular season approaches its final weekend, the Week 12 results have provided remarkable clarity to both conference races and playoff positioning. Montana State's thrilling victory over UC Davis has firmly established the Bobcats as the Big Sky champion and likely secured a top-two seed in the playoffs, while North Dakota State continues its dominance in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. Abilene Christian secured the UAC's automatic bid with its victory over Tarleton State, while Richmond claimed at least a share of the CAA championship with its win over Hampton.

The most significant developments centered around several surprising upsets that have dramatically reshaped the middle of our rankings. Monmouth's victory over Villanova, New Hampshire's comeback against Stony Brook, and Tennessee Tech's defensive masterpiece against UT Martin have created significant uncertainty for multiple conference races while reshaping the playoff bubble heading into the final weekend. These results reinforce the competitive depth across the FCS landscape while setting the stage for a compelling conclusion to the regular season.

As attention turns to Week 13, several conference championships remain undecided, with the MVFC, CAA, and Big South-OVC races coming down to the final weekend. North Dakota State visits South Dakota in what amounts to the MVFC championship game, while Southeast Missouri hosts Tennessee State with the Big South-OVC automatic bid at stake. With Selection Sunday just one week away, teams across the country face their final opportunity to strengthen their playoff resumes and secure favorable postseason positioning.