Ranked Matchups and Close Calls Reshape Landscape

Week 3 of the FCS season delivered a compelling slate of games featuring four matchups between nationally ranked teams and several dramatic finishes that have reshaped the championship picture. North Dakota State narrowly escaped an upset bid from ETSU with a thrilling 38-35 comeback victory, while fifth-ranked Villanova survived a scare in a 14-13 win over Towson after the Tigers missed two field goal attempts in the final 1:13. These close calls at the top of the rankings underscored the competitive nature of the 2024 season that has already featured several FCS victories over FBS opponents in previous weeks.

The weekend's ranked matchups produced decisive outcomes, with Idaho dominating UAlbany 41-13 in a rematch of last year's playoff quarterfinal, Southern Illinois building a 21-point halftime lead in a 35-28 victory over Incarnate Word, Sacramento State dismantling Nicholls 34-7, and Mercer stunning Chattanooga 10-3 in a defensive struggle. Meanwhile, several other ranked teams suffered surprising defeats, with Weber State falling to Lamar 17-16, Youngstown State losing to Duquesne 28-25, and Elon dropping a 24-17 decision to Western Carolina.

The weekend's results will likely trigger significant movement in the national rankings, particularly in the middle and lower tiers. The top four teams maintained their positions with convincing victories or bye weeks, but North Dakota State's narrow escape and upsets throughout the rest of the rankings will reshape the championship picture heading into Week 4. As conference play begins to intensify across the subdivision, the road to Frisco continues to provide compelling storylines and unexpected results that demonstrate the remarkable competitive balance throughout the FCS.

The Elite Tier: Championship Favorites

1. South Dakota State Jackrabbits (2-1) [Previous: 1]

South Dakota State solidified its grip on the top ranking with a workmanlike 24-3 victory over Division II Augustana, extending the Jackrabbits' hold on the No. 1 position for a 25th consecutive poll dating back to 2022. The two-time defending national champions controlled the game from the outset, though the final margin was perhaps closer than expected against lower-division competition. The victory provided the Jackrabbits an opportunity to fine-tune their execution while distributing playing time across their deep roster before entering the more challenging portion of their schedule.

Head coach Jimmy Rogers' program continues to demonstrate the balanced approach that has defined their championship runs, with their defense allowing just three points while their offense generated enough production to maintain a comfortable advantage throughout. The Jackrabbits received 41 of 56 first-place votes in the latest Stats Perform FCS Top 25 Poll, confirming their status as the consensus championship favorite despite an early-season setback against Iowa.

South Dakota State now turns its attention to a challenging road trip to Southeastern Louisiana in Week 4, providing a significant test against a quality non-conference opponent. The Jackrabbits' championship experience and balanced attack make them formidable against any opponent, with their methodical approach creating a foundation for sustained success as they pursue an unprecedented third consecutive national title.

2. North Dakota State Bison (2-1) [Previous: 2]

North Dakota State survived a major scare in Johnson City, requiring a remarkable comeback to secure a 38-35 victory over ETSU in a game that nearly resulted in the Bison's first regular-season non-conference loss since 2015. Trailing 35-23 with two minutes remaining, North Dakota State scored two touchdowns and recovered an onside kick to complete the improbable comeback. Quarterback Cam Miller delivered in the clutch, accounting for 297 yards of total offense and three touchdowns, including the game-winning 11-yard scramble with just 50 seconds remaining.

Head coach Tim Polasek's program demonstrated championship resilience when facing their first significant adversity of the season. After ETSU's Bryson Irby rushed for 147 yards and three touchdowns to build a seemingly insurmountable lead, the Bison's championship DNA emerged in the final minutes. Their ability to execute under pressure – scoring twice, converting the onside kick, and making defensive stops when absolutely necessary – showcased the winning culture that has defined their dynasty.

North Dakota State returns home to host Towson in Week 4, providing an opportunity to correct the defensive issues that nearly resulted in a stunning upset. The Bison received five first-place votes in the latest poll, confirming that despite their close call, they remain firmly positioned among the championship favorites. Their response to the ETSU scare will provide valuable insights into this team's character and development under first-year head coach Polasek.

3. Montana State Bobcats (3-0) [Previous: 3]

Montana State maintained its perfect record during a bye week, resting and preparing for the challenging schedule ahead while watching several other top teams face significant challenges. The Bobcats' impressive non-conference performance, including dominant victories over Utah Tech and Maine, has solidified their position among the championship favorites heading into the heart of the season. Their balanced offensive attack and stingy defense have established them as the Big Sky's top team in the early portion of the schedule.

Head coach Brent Vigen's program received seven first-place votes in the latest poll, demonstrating the significant respect they've earned through their undefeated start. The Bobcats' balanced offensive approach and championship-caliber defense create a foundation for sustained success as they prepare for the conference challenges ahead. Their bye week provided an opportunity to address any early-season concerns while focusing on the improvement necessary to maintain their championship trajectory.

Montana State returns to action in Week 4 hosting Mercyhurst, providing another opportunity to fine-tune their execution against lower-division competition before beginning conference play. The Bobcats' championship pedigree and perfect start position them as Big Sky favorites and legitimate national title contenders heading into the heart of the schedule. Their consistent excellence under Vigen continues to establish Montana State as one of the FCS's premier programs.

4. Idaho Vandals (2-1) [Previous: 4]

Idaho delivered a statement performance with a dominant 41-13 victory over No. 17 UAlbany in a rematch of last year's playoff quarterfinal that the Great Danes had won. The Vandals controlled all phases of the game, building a substantial lead while demonstrating the improvement they've made since last season's playoff defeat. Quarterback Jack Wagner, replacing injured starter Jack Layne, continued his impressive play following last week's FBS upset over Wyoming, connecting with Jordan Dwyer for two touchdowns while orchestrating an efficient offensive performance.

Head coach Jason Eck's program continues to demonstrate remarkable development, with their defense emerging as perhaps the best unit in the FCS. The Vandals lead the subdivision in defensive TRACR (a predictive analytics metric), anchored by linebacker Jaxton Eck (23 tackles) and defensive end Keyshawn James-Newby (five sacks). Their physical, fundamentally sound approach on both sides of the ball creates matchup problems for any opponent they face.

Idaho received three first-place votes in the latest poll, confirming their status as legitimate championship contenders. The Vandals' victory over UAlbany exorcised the demons from last year's playoff defeat while establishing them as clear Big Sky contenders alongside Montana State. Their performance against quality competition – holding both Oregon and Wyoming to 24 or fewer points before dismantling Albany – demonstrates their championship potential heading into conference play.

5. Villanova Wildcats (3-0) [Previous: 5]

Villanova survived a significant scare, escaping with a 14-13 victory over Towson in their Colonial Athletic Association opener after the Tigers missed two field goal attempts in the final 1:13. The Wildcats appeared vulnerable throughout the contest, with their typically explosive offense struggling to find rhythm against Towson's determined defense. Wide receiver Jaylan Sanchez provided the difference with two touchdown receptions, including what proved to be the game-winner.

Head coach Mark Ferrante's program demonstrated championship resilience despite their struggles, finding ways to win even when not playing their best football. The victory improved Villanova to 3-0 on the season and 1-0 in CAA play, keeping them positioned among the championship favorites despite the concerning performance. Their ability to win close games represents a crucial championship quality, though the narrow escape against an unranked opponent raises questions about their overall ceiling.

Villanova maintains its position in the top five heading into Week 4, though their uneven performance against Towson suggests they'll need significant improvement to challenge the top tier. The Wildcats' balanced offensive approach and defensive playmaking ability keep them among the championship contenders, with their perfect record providing a strong foundation as they continue conference play. Their response to this close call will provide valuable insights into their championship potential.

Championship Contenders

6. South Dakota Coyotes (1-1) [Previous: 6]

South Dakota maintained its position in the rankings during an unexpected bye week after their scheduled game at Portland State was canceled due to a whooping cough outbreak within the Vikings' program. The Coyotes were denied an opportunity to build momentum following their opening victory over Northern State, though the additional rest and preparation time could prove beneficial as they prepare for the challenging Missouri Valley Football Conference schedule ahead.

Head coach Bob Nielson's program remains positioned among the championship contenders based on their impressive 2023 campaign and the significant returning talent on both sides of the ball. The unexpected week off prevented South Dakota from addressing any concerns from their opening performance while potentially disrupting their early-season rhythm. However, their veteran leadership and championship experience should help mitigate any negative effects from the schedule disruption.

South Dakota returns to action in Week 4 hosting Southern Illinois in their MVFC opener, providing an immediate conference test against a quality opponent coming off an impressive victory over Incarnate Word. The Coyotes' balanced offensive attack and improved defense will face a significant challenge, with the outcome potentially having long-term implications for both teams' conference and playoff positioning. Their performance against the Salukis will provide valuable insights into South Dakota's championship potential.

7. Central Arkansas Bears (2-1) [Previous: 7]

Central Arkansas delivered a statement performance with a dominant 45-17 victory over Austin Peay, showcasing the balanced excellence that makes them legitimate championship contenders. The Bears controlled all phases of the game, building a substantial lead while demonstrating the improvement they've made since their season-opening defeat against Arkansas State. Their efficient offensive performance and defensive playmaking ability created a comprehensive victory that reinforces their status as United Athletic Conference favorites.

Head coach Nathan Brown's program continues to demonstrate remarkable balance, with their offensive efficiency and defensive playmaking creating a formula for sustained success. The Bears' convincing victory improves them to 2-1 on the season and 1-0 in UAC play, keeping them positioned among the championship contenders as they begin their conference schedule. Their ability to dominate quality competition represents a crucial championship quality that will serve them well throughout the remainder of the season.

Central Arkansas enters Week 4 with momentum and confidence, preparing for another conference test that will further clarify their championship potential. The Bears' balanced approach and improved execution keep them among the clear championship contenders, with their early-season performance establishing them as legitimate threats to reach Frisco. Their response to this convincing victory will provide valuable insights into their championship ceiling as they continue their conference schedule.

8. Montana Grizzlies (2-1) [Previous: 8]

Montana delivered a dominant performance in a 59-2 dismantling of Morehead State, showcasing their elite potential against an overmatched opponent. The Grizzlies controlled every phase of the game, building a 39-0 halftime lead while holding Morehead State to just 45 total yards of offense, including -14 rushing yards. Their efficient offensive execution and suffocating defense created a comprehensive victory in front of 25,808 fans, marking a program-record 12th consecutive sellout at Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

Head coach Bobby Hauck's program appears to have addressed the issues that plagued them against North Dakota, though the level of competition makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. The Grizzlies' convincing victory improves them to 2-1 on the season, keeping them positioned among the championship contenders as they prepare for the challenging Big Sky schedule ahead. Their ability to dominate lower-level competition represents a baseline expectation for a program with championship aspirations.

Montana enters Week 4 with renewed confidence, preparing for a challenging non-conference matchup against Western Carolina that will test their improvement. The Grizzlies' balanced approach and championship pedigree keep them among the clear championship contenders, with their early-season performance suggesting they remain capable of challenging the Big Sky's elite programs. Their upcoming test against Western Carolina will provide more meaningful insights into their championship potential.

9. Southern Illinois Salukis (2-1) [Previous: 9]

Southern Illinois secured a signature victory with a 35-28 triumph over No. 12 Incarnate Word in one of the weekend's most anticipated matchups. The Salukis dominated the first half, building a 35-14 lead before weathering a second-half comeback attempt from the Cardinals. Quarterback DJ Williams delivered a spectacular performance, accounting for 380 total yards and three touchdowns, including 301 passing yards and 79 rushing yards. Vinny Pierre Jr.'s interception with 42 seconds remaining sealed the victory.

Head coach Nick Hill's program demonstrated remarkable offensive firepower, amassing over 540 total yards and averaging 7.1 yards per play against a quality opponent. Wide receivers Keontez Lewis and Nah'shawn Hezekiah combined for 266 receiving yards, the second-highest single-game mark in school history. The Salukis' balanced offensive attack created consistent problems for Incarnate Word's defense, while their own defense forced critical turnovers in key moments.

Southern Illinois enters Week 4 with significant momentum, traveling to face South Dakota in a crucial early-season Missouri Valley Football Conference showdown. The Salukis' impressive victory over a ranked non-conference opponent enhances their playoff resume, though their challenging conference schedule lies ahead. Their balanced offensive attack and improving defense keep them positioned among the championship contenders, with their performance against Incarnate Word suggesting they have the firepower to challenge any opponent.

10. North Dakota Fighting Hawks (2-1) [Previous: 10]

North Dakota delivered another impressive offensive performance in a 52-28 victory over Idaho State, continuing to build momentum following their upset of Montana the previous week. The Fighting Hawks demonstrated remarkable offensive balance and efficiency, controlling the tempo throughout the contest while their defense generated crucial stops when necessary. Their convincing victory improves them to 2-1 on the season, keeping them positioned among the championship contenders as they prepare for their challenging Missouri Valley Football Conference schedule.

Head coach Bubba Schweigert's program continues to establish an identity built around offensive firepower and timely defensive playmaking. The Fighting Hawks' convincing victory over Idaho State following their significant upset of Montana suggests this team has found the consistency that eluded them in recent seasons. Their ability to sustain offensive production represents a crucial development for a program seeking to challenge the MVFC's established powers.

North Dakota enters Week 4 with confidence and momentum, preparing for the challenging conference schedule that will truly define their season. The Fighting Hawks' balanced offensive approach and improving defense keep them among the clear playoff contenders, with their early-season performance suggesting they have the potential to make noise in the MVFC race. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship ceiling.

Playoff Contenders

11. Sacramento State Hornets (1-2) [Previous: 11]

Sacramento State secured a crucial first victory of the season with a convincing 34-7 triumph over No. 24 Nicholls, demonstrating the championship potential that established them as Big Sky favorites entering the season. The Hornets dominated all phases of the game, building a substantial lead while showcasing the balanced attack that defined their conference championship runs from 2021-2023. Their comprehensive victory improves them to 1-2 on the season, keeping them positioned among the playoff contenders despite their challenging start.

Head coach Andy Thompson's program appears to have addressed the issues that plagued them during losses to Nicholls State and San Jose State, though the quality of competition makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. The Hornets' convincing victory provides crucial momentum as they prepare for the challenging Big Sky schedule ahead. Their ability to dominate a ranked opponent represents an encouraging sign for a program seeking to reclaim its conference throne.

Sacramento State enters Week 4 with renewed confidence, preparing for the conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Hornets' balanced approach and championship pedigree keep them among the clear playoff contenders, with their early-season struggles likely attributable to a challenging schedule rather than fundamental flaws. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship potential.

12. Incarnate Word Cardinals (1-2) [Previous: 12]

Incarnate Word suffered a disappointing 35-28 defeat to Southern Illinois despite a valiant second-half comeback attempt. The Cardinals fell behind 35-14 in the first half before shutting out the Salukis after intermission, though their comeback effort fell short when Zach Calzada was intercepted with 42 seconds remaining. Despite the setback, Calzada continued his impressive season, completing over 70% of his passes for substantial yardage against a quality opponent.

Head coach Clint Killough's program demonstrated remarkable resilience in their comeback attempt, though their first-half struggles created too significant a deficit to overcome. The Cardinals' one-dimensional offensive approach proved problematic, as they managed just 71 rushing yards and 3.1 yards per carry against Southern Illinois' aggressive defense. Their inability to convert in critical situations – finishing 1-for-4 on fourth downs and converting less than 50% of third-down attempts – ultimately proved decisive.

Incarnate Word enters Week 4 seeking to rebound from consecutive losses to ranked opponents, having fallen to South Dakota State and Southern Illinois in successive weeks. The Cardinals' explosive passing attack keeps them positioned among the playoff contenders, though addressing their rushing inefficiency and defensive inconsistency will be crucial for their championship aspirations. Their upcoming Southland Conference schedule provides an opportunity to regain momentum and establish themselves as conference favorites.

13. William & Mary Tribe (2-1) [Previous: 13]

William & Mary secured a hard-fought 28-21 victory over Wofford, demonstrating the resilience that has defined their program under head coach Mike London. The Tribe overcame a determined Terriers squad that entered the contest with a 2-0 record, showcasing their ability to execute in crucial moments while securing a quality non-conference victory. Their clutch performance improves them to 2-1 on the season, keeping them positioned among the playoff contenders as they prepare for the challenging Colonial Athletic Association schedule ahead.

Head coach Mike London's program continues to establish an identity built around balanced offensive execution and timely defensive playmaking. The Tribe's victory over Wofford following their impressive bounce-back against Norfolk State suggests this team has addressed the issues that plagued them in their season-opening loss. Their ability to secure victories against quality non-conference opposition represents an encouraging sign for their CAA prospects.

William & Mary enters Week 4 with momentum and confidence, preparing for the conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Tribe's balanced approach and championship pedigree keep them among the clear playoff contenders, with their early-season performance suggesting they have the potential to challenge for the CAA crown. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship ceiling.

14. Chattanooga Mocs (0-3) [Previous: 14]

Chattanooga suffered another disappointing defeat, falling 10-3 to No. 23 Mercer in a defensive struggle that dropped the preseason Southern Conference favorites to 0-3. The Mocs' offensive struggles continued against the Bears' stingy defense, with their inability to find the end zone proving decisive in the low-scoring affair. Their third consecutive defeat – following losses to Tennessee and Georgia State – creates significant concerns about their championship aspirations despite their preseason hype.

Head coach Rusty Wright's program continues to demonstrate championship-level defense but must address their significant offensive issues to remain among the playoff contenders. The Mocs' challenging schedule has contributed to their winless start, though their inability to generate consistent offensive production represents a more fundamental concern. Their upcoming Southern Conference schedule provides an opportunity to regroup and establish momentum, though their margin for error has been significantly reduced.

Chattanooga enters Week 4 seeking their first victory of the season, with their championship aspirations hanging in the balance. The Mocs' defensive excellence keeps them positioned among the playoff contenders despite their winless record, as the selection committee will likely consider their challenging schedule when evaluating their resume. However, addressing their offensive inefficiency represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their season and maintaining their national relevance.

15. UC Davis Aggies (2-1) [Previous: 15]

UC Davis secured a hard-fought 24-21 victory over Southern Utah, demonstrating the resilience necessary for championship contention. The Aggies overcame a determined Thunderbirds squad that entered the contest with momentum from their upset of UTEP, showcasing their ability to execute in crucial moments while securing a quality non-conference victory. Their clutch performance improves them to 2-1 on the season, keeping them positioned among the playoff contenders as they prepare for the challenging Big Sky schedule ahead.

Head coach Tim Plough's program continues to establish an identity built around efficient offensive execution and timely defensive playmaking. The Aggies' victory over Southern Utah following their bounce-back against Texas A&M-Commerce suggests this team has adequately addressed the issues that plagued them in their season-opening loss to Washington. Their ability to secure victories against quality non-conference opposition represents an encouraging sign for their Big Sky prospects.

UC Davis enters Week 4 with momentum and confidence, preparing for the conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Aggies' balanced approach keeps them among the playoff contenders, with their early-season performance suggesting they have the potential to challenge the Big Sky's established powers. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship ceiling.

16. UAlbany Great Danes (1-2) [Previous: 17]

UAlbany suffered a decisive 41-13 defeat to No. 4 Idaho in a rematch of last year's playoff quarterfinal, raising questions about their championship aspirations. The Great Danes struggled to establish offensive consistency against the Vandals' elite defense, generating limited production while surrendering explosive plays to Idaho's balanced attack. Their second defeat in three games – following a loss to West Virginia – creates significant concerns about their ability to replicate last season's playoff success.

Head coach Greg Gattuso's program continues to demonstrate determination despite their significant personnel losses from last season's semifinal team. The Great Danes' challenging schedule has contributed to their slow start, though their inability to compete with Idaho represents a more fundamental concern given their playoff history. Their upcoming Colonial Athletic Association schedule provides an opportunity to regroup and establish momentum, though they'll need significant improvement to remain among the playoff contenders.

UAlbany enters Week 4 seeking to rebound from their decisive defeat, with their championship aspirations requiring an immediate response. The Great Danes' early-season struggles might be attributable to their substantial roster turnover and challenging schedule, though addressing their execution issues represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their season and maintaining their national relevance. Their upcoming conference tests will determine whether they can remain in the playoff conversation.

17. Illinois State Redbirds (2-1) [Previous: 18]

Illinois State delivered an offensive explosion in a 51-34 victory over Western Illinois, showcasing the firepower that makes them legitimate playoff contenders. The Redbirds dominated offensively throughout the contest, building a substantial lead while demonstrating the improvement they've made since their season-opening defeat against Dayton. Their impressive offensive performance improves them to 2-1 on the season, positioning them among the playoff contenders as they prepare for the challenging Missouri Valley Football Conference schedule ahead.

Head coach Brock Spack's program continues to establish an identity built around explosive offensive execution, though their defensive inconsistency raises questions about their championship ceiling. The Redbirds' victory over Western Illinois followed their bounce-back against Eastern Illinois, suggesting this team has addressed some of the issues that plagued them in their season opener. Their ability to generate consistent offensive production represents an encouraging sign for their MVFC prospects.

Illinois State enters Week 4 with momentum and confidence, preparing for the conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Redbirds' offensive firepower keeps them positioned among the playoff contenders, with their early-season performance suggesting they have the potential to challenge for an at-large playoff berth despite the MVFC's remarkable depth. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship potential.

18. Lafayette Leopards (2-1) [Previous: 19]

Lafayette delivered a dominant performance in a 56-14 dismantling of Marist, showcasing their explosive potential against an overmatched opponent. The Leopards controlled every phase of the game, building a substantial lead while demonstrating the improvement they've made since their disappointing performance against Buffalo the previous week. Their efficient offensive execution and suffocating defense created a comprehensive victory that reinforces their status as Patriot League favorites despite their earlier setback.

Head coach John Troxell's program appears to have addressed the issues that plagued them against Buffalo, though the level of competition makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. The Leopards' convincing victory improves them to 2-1 on the season, keeping them positioned among the playoff contenders as they prepare for the challenging Patriot League schedule ahead. Their ability to dominate lower-level competition represents a baseline expectation for a program with championship aspirations.

Lafayette enters Week 4 with renewed confidence, preparing for the conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Leopards' balanced approach keeps them among the clear playoff contenders, with their early-season performance suggesting they remain capable of defending their Patriot League crown. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship potential.

Final Top 25 Spots

19. Weber State Wildcats (1-2) [Previous: 20]

Weber State suffered a shocking 17-16 defeat to Lamar, raising significant questions about their championship aspirations. The Wildcats' offensive struggles continued against the Cardinals, with their inability to find consistent production proving decisive in the one-point loss. Their second consecutive defeat – following a loss to Utah – creates serious concerns about their ability to compete with the Big Sky's elite programs despite their preseason expectations.

Head coach Mickey Mental's program continues to demonstrate defensive potential but must address their significant offensive issues to remain among the playoff contenders. The Wildcats' challenging schedule has contributed to their slow start, though their inability to defeat Lamar represents a more fundamental concern. Their upcoming Big Sky schedule provides an opportunity to regroup and establish momentum, though their margin for error has been significantly reduced following this surprising setback.

Weber State enters Week 4 seeking to rebound from consecutive losses, with their championship aspirations requiring an immediate response. The Wildcats' defensive excellence keeps them positioned among the playoff contenders despite their losing record, though addressing their offensive inefficiency represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their season and maintaining their national relevance. Their upcoming conference tests will determine whether they can remain in the playoff conversation.

20. Youngstown State Penguins (1-2) [Previous: 21]

Youngstown State suffered a surprising 28-25 defeat to Duquesne, raising significant questions about their championship aspirations. The Penguins' defensive struggles continued against the Dukes, with their inability to generate crucial stops proving decisive in the three-point loss. Their second consecutive defeat – following a loss to Villanova – creates serious concerns about their ability to compete in the challenging Missouri Valley Football Conference despite their preseason expectations.

Head coach Doug Phillips' program continues to demonstrate offensive potential but must address their significant defensive issues to remain among the playoff contenders. The Penguins' challenging schedule has contributed to their slow start, though their inability to defeat Duquesne at home represents a more fundamental concern. Their upcoming MVFC schedule provides an opportunity to regroup and establish momentum, though their margin for error has been essentially eliminated following this surprising setback.

Youngstown State enters Week 4 seeking to rebound from consecutive losses, with their championship aspirations requiring an immediate response. The Penguins' offensive firepower keeps them positioned among the playoff contenders despite their losing record, though addressing their defensive inefficiency represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their season and maintaining their national relevance. Their upcoming conference tests will determine whether they can remain in the playoff conversation.

21. Southeast Missouri Redhawks (New)

Southeast Missouri enters the rankings at No. 21 following impressive early-season performances that have established them as Big South-OVC favorites. The Redhawks have demonstrated the balanced approach that has defined their success under head coach Tom Matukewicz, with their efficient offensive execution and consistent defensive performance creating a foundation for sustained success. Their impressive start has positioned them among the clear playoff contenders as they prepare for the challenging conference schedule ahead.

Head coach Tom Matukewicz's program continues to establish an identity built around balanced offensive execution and disciplined defensive playmaking. The Redhawks' early-season success suggests they have adequately addressed any offseason concerns, with their cohesive play on both sides of the ball representing an encouraging sign for their conference prospects. Their ability to secure quality victories demonstrates their championship potential heading into the heart of the season.

Southeast Missouri enters Week 4 with momentum and confidence, preparing for the conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Redhawks' balanced approach keeps them among the clear playoff contenders, with their early-season performance suggesting they have the potential to secure another FCS playoff berth. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship ceiling.

22. Lamar Cardinals (New)

Lamar enters the rankings at No. 22 following their stunning 17-16 upset of No. 20 Weber State, establishing themselves as legitimate playoff contenders. The Cardinals demonstrated remarkable resilience against the Wildcats, securing the program's most significant victory since returning to the Southland Conference. Their dramatic triumph improves them to 2-1 on the season, positioning them among the emerging playoff contenders as they prepare for their conference schedule.

Head coach Pete Rossomando's program continues to demonstrate remarkable development, with their upset of Weber State representing a potential breakthrough moment. The Cardinals' balanced offensive approach and opportunistic defense created just enough production to overcome the Wildcats, with their execution in crucial moments proving decisive. Their ability to secure a victory against a ranked opponent represents an encouraging sign for their conference prospects.

Lamar enters Week 4 with significant momentum and confidence, preparing for the conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Cardinals' balanced approach and upset potential keep them positioned among the playoff contenders, with their victory over Weber State suggesting they have the capability to challenge the Southland's established powers. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship ceiling.

23. Mercer Bears (3-0) [Previous: 23]

Mercer secured a signature victory with a 10-3 triumph over No. 14 Chattanooga, establishing themselves as legitimate Southern Conference contenders. The Bears' defensive dominance proved decisive in the low-scoring affair, with their ability to contain the Mocs' typically productive offense creating the foundation for their road victory. Their third consecutive win – and first conference triumph – improves them to 3-0 on the season, keeping them positioned among the playoff contenders as they continue their SoCon schedule.

Head coach Keith Hatcher's program continues to establish an identity built around elite defensive execution and efficient offensive production. The Bears' victory over Chattanooga following their dominant performances against Presbyterian and Bethune-Cookman suggests this team has the defensive foundation necessary for championship contention. Their ability to secure a road victory against the preseason conference favorites represents a significant development for their SoCon aspirations.

Mercer enters Week 4 with perfect record and significant momentum, continuing a conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Bears' defensive excellence keeps them among the clear playoff contenders, with their early-season performance establishing them as legitimate SoCon favorites. Their upcoming conference tests will provide additional insights into their championship ceiling.

24. Western Carolina Catamounts (New)

Western Carolina enters the rankings at No. 24 following their impressive 24-17 victory over No. 22 Elon, establishing themselves as legitimate Southern Conference contenders. The Catamounts demonstrated remarkable resilience against the Phoenix, securing a quality road victory that improves them to 1-2 on the season after challenging matchups against Arkansas and Liberty. Their breakthrough triumph positions them among the emerging playoff contenders as they prepare for their conference schedule.

Head coach Kerwin Bell's program continues to demonstrate remarkable development, with their victory over Elon representing a potential turning point following competitive performances against FBS opposition. The Catamounts' balanced offensive approach and improving defense created just enough production to overcome the Phoenix, with their execution in crucial moments proving decisive. Their ability to secure a victory against a ranked opponent represents an encouraging sign for their conference prospects.

Western Carolina enters Week 4 with momentum and confidence, preparing for the conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Catamounts' balanced approach and upset potential keep them positioned among the playoff contenders, with their victory over Elon suggesting they have the capability to challenge for the Southern Conference crown. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship ceiling.

25. Abilene Christian Wildcats (2-1) [Previous: 25]

Abilene Christian secured a hard-fought 24-22 victory over Northern Colorado, demonstrating the resilience necessary for playoff contention. The Wildcats overcame a determined Bears squad in their United Athletic Conference opener, showcasing their ability to execute in crucial moments while securing a quality conference victory. Their clutch performance improves them to 2-1 on the season and 1-0 in UAC play, keeping them positioned among the playoff contenders as they continue their conference schedule.

Head coach Keith Patterson's program continues to establish an identity built around balanced offensive execution and timely defensive playmaking. The Wildcats' victory over Northern Colorado following their bounce-back against Northern Arizona suggests this team has adequately addressed the issues that plagued them in their season-opening loss to Texas Tech. Their ability to secure close victories represents an encouraging sign for their conference prospects.

Abilene Christian enters Week 4 with momentum and confidence, continuing a conference schedule that will ultimately define their season. The Wildcats' balanced approach keeps them among the playoff contenders, with their early-season performance suggesting they have the potential to challenge Central Arkansas for the UAC crown. Their upcoming conference tests will provide more meaningful insights into their championship ceiling.

Conclusion

Week 3 of the FCS season delivered a compelling combination of ranked matchups, close calls, and stunning upsets that have reshaped the championship landscape. North Dakota State's dramatic comeback against ETSU and Villanova's narrow escape against Towson demonstrated that even the subdivision's elite programs face significant challenges every week, while decisive outcomes in the ranked showdowns between Idaho-UAlbany and Southern Illinois-Incarnate Word provided clarity at the top of the rankings. The surprising upsets – including Lamar over Weber State, Duquesne over Youngstown State, and Western Carolina over Elon – introduced new playoff contenders while raising questions about established programs.

As the national rankings adjust to reflect these results, the championship picture has gained both clarity and additional intrigue. South Dakota State's methodical victory over Augustana and Montana State's bye week maintained stability at the very top, while Idaho's dominant performance against UAlbany reinforced their championship credentials. The middle and lower tiers experienced significant turbulence, with several previously unranked teams entering the Top 25 while established programs face increased pressure following disappointing defeats.

Week 4 promises additional excitement as conference play intensifies across the subdivision. North Dakota State and Villanova will seek more convincing performances following their close calls, while emerging contenders like Mercer, Lamar, and Western Carolina look to build on their breakthrough victories. With the road to Frisco becoming increasingly defined through these early-season results, the compelling storylines and remarkable competitive balance throughout the FCS continue to demonstrate why this subdivision represents one of college football's most entertaining competitions.