Championship Contenders Shine While Ranked Matchups Deliver Drama

Week 4 of the FCS season delivered a compelling combination of dominant performances from top-ranked teams and thrilling matchups between ranked opponents that have further clarified the championship picture. South Dakota State reasserted its dominance with a 41-0 shutout of Southeastern Louisiana, while North Dakota State continued its strong play with a convincing 41-24 victory over Towson. Meanwhile, three games between ranked opponents provided some of the weekend's most intriguing storylines, including Montana's thrilling 46-35 comeback victory over Western Carolina and Southeast Missouri State's 38-21 upset of No. 7 Southern Illinois in the "War for the Wheel" rivalry.

The weekend's ranked matchups produced several significant results, with No. 4 Idaho surviving a challenge from No. 19 Abilene Christian in a hard-fought 27-24 road victory, and No. 12 William & Mary defeating traditional Southern Conference power Furman 34-24. Additionally, five FBS-FCS matchups took place, with Villanova falling to Maryland 38-20 and Northern Iowa losing at Hawaii 36-7, while Monmouth secured a significant upset victory over FBS Miami (FL) 45-42 to give the FCS its fifth victory over FBS opponents this season.

As conference play begins to intensify across the subdivision, several teams have solidified their positions as legitimate championship contenders. The top four teams - South Dakota State, North Dakota State, Montana State, and Idaho - all maintained their rankings with impressive victories, while Southeast Missouri State delivered the weekend's most significant statement with its upset of Southern Illinois. With many teams entering conference play in the coming weeks, Week 4 provided valuable insights into which programs have the potential to make deep playoff runs as the road to Frisco continues to unfold.

The Elite Tier: Championship Favorites

1. South Dakota State Jackrabbits (3-1) [Previous: 1]

South Dakota State delivered perhaps its most complete performance of the season, dominating Southeastern Louisiana 41-0 in a shutout victory that reinforced the Jackrabbits' status as the clear team to beat in the FCS. The two-time defending national champions controlled every phase of the game, building a substantial lead while holding the Lions to just 186 total yards. The comprehensive victory provided further evidence that SDSU has fully rebounded from its season-opening defeat against FBS Iowa.

South Dakota State's balanced approach continues to be its hallmark, with their defense recording their first shutout of the season while their offense generated 41 points against a traditionally solid Southeastern Louisiana program. The Jackrabbits received 22 of 26 first-place votes in the latest AFCA Coaches Poll, confirming their status as the consensus championship favorite heading into Missouri Valley Football Conference play.

The Jackrabbits now turn their attention to their MVFC schedule, having completed their non-conference slate with a 3-1 record. South Dakota State's 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. Their complete dominance of Southeastern Louisiana serves notice that the championship still runs through Brookings.

2. North Dakota State Bison (3-1) [Previous: 2]

North Dakota State maintained its position as a clear championship contender with a convincing 41-24 victory over Towson, showcasing the balanced excellence that has defined their dynasty. The Bison controlled the tempo throughout, building a substantial lead while demonstrating the improvements they've made since their narrow escape against ETSU the previous week. Their comprehensive victory improves them to 3-1 on the season, keeping them positioned among the championship favorites as they prepare for Missouri Valley Football Conference play.

Head coach Tim Polasek's program continues to demonstrate championship-level execution, with their typically balanced offensive attack generating 41 points against Towson's defense. The Bison received one first-place vote in the latest AFCA Coaches Poll, confirming that despite South Dakota State's dominance, North Dakota State remains viewed as a legitimate challenger for the national championship. Their response to the ETSU scare demonstrated the program's ability to address weaknesses and improve throughout the season.

North Dakota State enters MVFC play with significant momentum, having completed their non-conference slate with a 3-1 record. The Bison's championship pedigree and balanced attack make them formidable against any opponent, with their systematic approach creating a foundation for sustained success as they pursue their 10th national title since 2011. Their convincing victory over Towson serves as a reminder that North Dakota State remains one of the subdivision's elite programs.

3. Montana State Bobcats (4-0) [Previous: 3]

Montana State continued its perfect start to the season with a dominant 52-13 victory over Division II Mercyhurst, further establishing the Bobcats as Big Sky favorites and legitimate national title contenders. The Bobcats controlled all phases of the game, building a substantial lead while distributing playing time across their deep roster. Their fourth consecutive win keeps them as one of the FCS's few remaining undefeated teams and positions them for a serious run at the national championship.

Head coach Brent Vigen's program continues to demonstrate remarkable balance on both sides of the ball, with their offense generating 52 points while their defense limited Mercyhurst to just 13. The Bobcats received two first-place votes in the latest AFCA Coaches Poll, demonstrating the significant respect they've earned through their undefeated start. Their dominant performance against Mercyhurst, despite the lower level of competition, showcased the program's depth and consistency.

Montana State enters Big Sky play with perfect 4-0 record and significant momentum, having outscored opponents by a combined margin of 184-50. The Bobcats' balanced approach and championship pedigree make them formidable against any opponent, with their systematic approach creating a foundation for sustained success as they pursue their first national title since 1984. Their dominant start serves notice that Montana State must be considered among the elite championship contenders.

4. Idaho Vandals (3-1) [Previous: 4]

Idaho secured one of Week 4's most significant victories, surviving a tough challenge from No. 19 Abilene Christian with a hard-fought 27-24 road victory. The Vandals demonstrated championship resilience in a hostile environment, making crucial plays in key moments to overcome a determined Wildcats squad. Their victory in one of the weekend's three ranked matchups improves them to 3-1 on the season, keeping them positioned among the championship favorites as they prepare for Big Sky Conference play.

Head coach Jason Eck's program continues to demonstrate remarkable development, building on their FBS upset of Wyoming the previous week with another quality victory. The Vandals received one first-place vote in the latest AFCA Coaches Poll, confirming their status as legitimate championship contenders. Their ability to secure a road victory against a ranked opponent showcases the program's mental toughness and execution in pressure situations.

Idaho enters Big Sky play with a 3-1 record and significant momentum, having won three consecutive games since their season-opening loss to Oregon. The Vandals' balanced approach and improved defense make them formidable against any opponent, with their systematic approach creating a foundation for sustained success as they pursue their first national championship at the FCS level. Their victory over Abilene Christian serves notice that Idaho must be considered among the elite championship contenders.

5. South Dakota Coyotes (2-1) [Previous: 6]

South Dakota moved up to No. 5 in the rankings after an impressive 42-3 demolition of Drake, showcasing the offensive firepower and defensive efficiency that make them legitimate championship contenders. The Coyotes controlled every phase of the game, building a substantial lead while limiting Drake to just a field goal. Their dominating performance improves them to 2-1 on the season and positions them as one of the Missouri Valley Football Conference's top teams heading into league play.

Head coach Bob Nielson's program continues to demonstrate remarkable balance on both sides of the ball, with their offense generating 42 points while their defense allowed just three. The Coyotes moved ahead of Villanova in the latest polls, benefiting from the Wildcats' loss to FBS Maryland while delivering a convincing performance of their own. Their dominant showing against Drake provides momentum as they enter the challenging MVFC schedule.

South Dakota now turns its attention to conference play, where they'll face an immediate test against Southern Illinois in a crucial early-season MVFC showdown. The Coyotes' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for sustained success as they pursue their first-ever FCS championship. Their complete dominance of Drake serves notice that South Dakota must be considered among the elite championship contenders.

Championship Contenders

6. Villanova Wildcats (3-1) [Previous: 5]

Villanova suffered its first defeat of the season, falling 38-20 to FBS Maryland in a competitive performance that demonstrated the Wildcats' talent despite the final margin. The Colonial Athletic Association favorites battled throughout the contest, though they ultimately couldn't overcome the Terrapins' depth and talent advantages. Despite the setback, Villanova remains positioned among the championship contenders heading into their CAA schedule.

Head coach Mark Ferrante's program demonstrated resilience against elevated competition, with their balanced offense generating 20 points against a Big Ten defense. The Wildcats drop just one spot in the rankings after their FBS defeat, maintaining their position among the championship contenders as they return to FCS competition. Their previous victories against Youngstown State and Lehigh, along with their CAA-opening win over Towson, provide a strong foundation as they continue conference play.

Villanova enters the heart of their conference schedule with a 3-1 record and continued championship aspirations. The Wildcats' balanced approach and championship pedigree make them formidable against FCS competition, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for sustained success as they pursue their first national championship since 2009. Their competitive performance against Maryland suggests Villanova remains capable of challenging any opponent at the FCS level.

7. Central Arkansas Bears (3-1) [Previous: 8]

Central Arkansas continued its impressive early-season form with a dominant 56-17 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff, further establishing the Bears as United Athletic Conference favorites and legitimate playoff contenders. The Bears controlled all phases of the game, amassing over 500 yards of total offense while their defense limited the Golden Lions' scoring opportunities. Their third consecutive win improves them to 3-1 on the season and positions them as one of the UAC's top teams heading into the heart of conference play.

Head coach Nathan Brown's program continues to demonstrate remarkable offensive firepower, with their balanced attack generating 56 points against UAPB's overmatched defense. The Bears move up to No. 7 in the rankings, benefiting from Southern Illinois's upset defeat while delivering an impressive performance of their own. Their dominant showing against Arkansas-Pine Bluff provides additional momentum as they continue their UAC schedule.

Central Arkansas enters the heart of conference play with a 3-1 record and significant momentum, having won three consecutive games since their season-opening loss to Arkansas State. The Bears' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for sustained success as they pursue a potential UAC championship and playoff berth. Their complete dominance of Arkansas-Pine Bluff serves notice that Central Arkansas must be considered among the top championship contenders.

8. Montana Grizzlies (3-1) [Previous: 9]

Montana demonstrated remarkable resilience in a thrilling 46-35 comeback victory over Western Carolina, overcoming a specific 17-0 first-quarter deficit to secure their 15th consecutive home win at Washington-Grizzly Stadium. The Grizzlies relied heavily on their potent rushing attack, which generated 349 yards and six touchdowns, including quarterback Keali'i Ah Yat's historic four rushing touchdowns – the first time a Montana quarterback has accomplished that feat. The victory came despite Western Carolina receiver De'Andre Tamarez's spectacular performance of 8 receptions for 229 yards.

Head coach Bobby Hauck's program continues to demonstrate championship-level character in challenging situations, battling back after Western Carolina dominated the first quarter by scoring on three of their first four drives. The Grizzlies move up to No. 8 in the rankings after their impressive comeback, with their offensive explosiveness and defensive adjustments combining to overcome the determined Catamounts. Their performance showcased both vulnerabilities and strengths, with the rushing attack emerging as a particularly potent weapon.

Montana enters Week 5 with a 3-1 record and significant momentum following consecutive victories. The Grizzlies' explosive offense and improving defense make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for sustained success as they pursue a potential Big Sky championship and playoff berth. Their comeback victory over Western Carolina serves notice that Montana remains capable of challenging the Big Sky's elite programs despite early-season inconsistency

9. North Dakota Fighting Hawks (3-1) [Previous: 10]

North Dakota continued its impressive start to the season with a convincing 41-24 victory over San Diego, further establishing the Fighting Hawks as legitimate Missouri Valley Football Conference contenders. The Fighting Hawks controlled the tempo throughout, building a substantial lead while demonstrating the improvements they've made since last season. Their third win improves them to 3-1 on the season and positions them as one of the MVFC's potential challengers to South Dakota State and North Dakota State.

Head coach Bubba Schweigert's program continues to demonstrate remarkable offensive consistency, with their balanced attack generating 41 points against San Diego's typically solid defense. The Fighting Hawks move up to No. 9 in the rankings, continuing their upward trajectory following their upset of Montana earlier in the season. Their dominant showing against San Diego provides additional momentum as they prepare for the challenging MVFC schedule ahead.

North Dakota enters conference play with a 3-1 record and significant confidence, having won three consecutive games since their season-opening loss to FBS Iowa State. The Fighting Hawks' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the challenging MVFC. Their consecutive impressive performances serve notice that North Dakota must be considered among the legitimate championship contenders heading into conference play.

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

Sacramento State secured a dominant 34-0 shutout victory over Texas A&M-Commerce, demonstrating the championship potential that established them as Big Sky contenders entering the season. The Hornets controlled all phases of the game, with their defense recording their first shutout of the season while their offense generated consistent production. Their second consecutive win improves them to 2-2 on the season and suggests they've addressed the issues that plagued them during their 0-2 start.

Head coach Andy Thompson's program continues to demonstrate the balanced excellence that led to three consecutive Big Sky championships from 2021-2023. The Hornets move up to No. 10 in the rankings, benefiting from Southern Illinois's upset defeat while delivering an impressive performance of their own. Their shutout victory provides significant momentum as they prepare for the challenging Big Sky schedule ahead.

Sacramento State enters conference play with renewed confidence following consecutive victories. The Hornets' balanced approach and championship pedigree make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the competitive Big Sky. Their complete dominance of Texas A&M-Commerce serves notice that Sacramento State should still be considered among the legitimate championship contenders despite their challenging start to the season.

Playoff Contenders

11. William & Mary Tribe (3-1) [Previous: 12]

William & Mary secured a quality 34-24 victory over traditional Southern Conference power Furman, showcasing the balanced excellence that makes them legitimate Colonial Athletic Association contenders. The Tribe's rushing attack was particularly impressive, generating 384 yards – the most surrendered by the Paladins since 2016. Their third consecutive victory improves them to 3-1 on the season and positions them as one of the CAA's top teams heading into conference play.

Head coach Mike London's program continues to demonstrate remarkable offensive consistency, with their ground-oriented attack creating sustained drives against Furman's typically solid defense. The Tribe moves up to No. 11 in the rankings, continuing their upward trajectory following their season-opening loss to Virginia Tech. Their impressive showing against Furman provides additional momentum as they prepare for the challenging CAA schedule ahead.

William & Mary enters conference play with a 3-1 record and significant confidence, having won three consecutive games since their season-opening loss to FBS Virginia Tech. The Tribe's balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the competitive CAA. Their victory over a quality non-conference opponent serves notice that William & Mary must be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders heading into conference play.

12. UC Davis Aggies (3-1) [Previous: 13]

UC Davis continued its impressive start to the season with a convincing 32-14 victory over Utah Tech, further establishing the Aggies as legitimate Big Sky Conference contenders. The Aggies controlled the tempo throughout, building a substantial lead while demonstrating the improvements they've made since last season. Their third consecutive win improves them to 3-1 on the season and positions them as one of the Big Sky's potential challengers to Montana State and Idaho.

Head coach Tim Plough's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency, with their balanced attack generating 32 points against Utah Tech's defense. The Aggies move up to No. 12 in the rankings, continuing their upward trajectory following their season-opening loss to FBS Washington. Their solid showing against Utah Tech provides additional momentum as they prepare for the challenging Big Sky schedule ahead.

UC Davis enters conference play with a 3-1 record and significant confidence, having won three consecutive games since their season-opening loss. The Aggies' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the challenging Big Sky. Their consecutive impressive performances serve notice that UC Davis must be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders heading into conference play.

13. Mercer Bears (4-0) [Previous: 14]

Mercer continued its perfect start to the season with a convincing 38-21 victory over The Citadel, establishing the Bears as legitimate Southern Conference contenders. Mercer controlled the tempo throughout the contest, improving to 4-0 overall and 2-0 in SoCon play. Their comprehensive victory keeps them positioned among the playoff contenders as they continue their conference schedule with significant momentum.

Head coach Keith Hatcher's program continues to demonstrate remarkable offensive consistency, with their balanced attack generating 38 points against The Citadel's typically solid defense. The Bears move up to No. 13 in the rankings, continuing their upward trajectory as one of the FCS's remaining undefeated teams. Their impressive victory provides additional confidence as they navigate the challenging SoCon schedule ahead.

Mercer enters the heart of conference play with a perfect 4-0 record and significant momentum, having won consecutive SoCon matchups to begin league play. The Bears' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the competitive Southern Conference. Their perfect start serves notice that Mercer must be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders heading into the middle portion of the season.

14. UIW Cardinals (2-2) [Previous: 15]

Incarnate Word secured a convincing 38-14 victory over Northern Arizona, rebounding from consecutive losses to deliver a performance reminiscent of their Southland Conference championship form. The Cardinals controlled the tempo throughout, with their explosive offense generating consistent production while their defense limited Northern Arizona's scoring opportunities. Their second win improves them to 2-2 on the season and suggests they've addressed the issues that plagued them during their recent setbacks.

Head coach Clint Killough's program continues to demonstrate the offensive firepower that has defined their success in recent seasons. The Cardinals move up to No. 14 in the rankings despite their .500 record, with the selection committee likely recognizing their challenging schedule that included games against South Dakota State and Southern Illinois. Their dominant victory provides significant momentum as they prepare for the Southland Conference schedule ahead.

Incarnate Word enters conference play with renewed confidence following their bounce-back performance. The Cardinals' explosive offense and improving defense make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the Southland Conference. Their decisive victory over Northern Arizona serves notice that UIW should still be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders despite their challenging start to the season.

15. Tarleton State Texans (3-1) [Previous: 16]

Tarleton State continued its impressive start to the season with a convincing 28-14 victory over North Alabama, further establishing the Texans as legitimate United Athletic Conference contenders. The Texans controlled the tempo throughout, building a substantial lead while demonstrating the improvements they've made since last season. Their third consecutive win improves them to 3-1 on the season and positions them as one of the UAC's top teams heading into the heart of conference play.

Head coach Todd Whitten's program continues to demonstrate remarkable offensive consistency, with their balanced attack generating 28 points against North Alabama's defense. The Texans move up to No. 15 in the rankings, continuing their upward trajectory following their impressive victory over Tarleton State the previous week. Their solid showing against North Alabama provides additional momentum as they continue their UAC schedule.

Tarleton State enters the heart of conference play with a 3-1 record and significant confidence, having won three consecutive games since their season-opening loss. The Texans' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the competitive UAC. Their consecutive impressive performances serve notice that Tarleton State must be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders heading into the middle portion of the season.

16. Illinois State Redbirds (3-1) [Previous: 17]

Illinois State secured a convincing 31-7 victory over in-state rival Eastern Illinois, showcasing the balanced excellence that makes them legitimate Missouri Valley Football Conference contenders. The Redbirds controlled all phases of the game, with their defense limiting Eastern Illinois to just seven points while their offense generated consistent production. Their third consecutive win improves them to 3-1 on the season and positions them as one of the MVFC's potential challengers heading into conference play.

Head coach Brock Spack's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency, with their balanced attack generating 31 points against Eastern Illinois's typically solid defense. The Redbirds move up to No. 16 in the rankings, continuing their upward trajectory following their surprising season-opening loss to Dayton. Their impressive showing against Eastern Illinois provides additional momentum as they prepare for the challenging MVFC schedule ahead.

Illinois State enters conference play with a 3-1 record and significant confidence, having won three consecutive games since their season-opening setback. The Redbirds' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the challenging MVFC. Their consecutive impressive performances serve notice that Illinois State must be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders heading into conference play.

17. Southeast Missouri State Redhawks (3-1) [Previous: 21]

Southeast Missouri State delivered Week 4's most significant statement with a convincing 38-21 upset victory over No. 7 Southern Illinois in the "War for the Wheel" rivalry, establishing the Redhawks as legitimate Big South-OVC contenders. SEMO dominated offensively, recording over 440 total yards and averaging nearly 7.0 yards per play. Quarterback Paxton DeLaurent continued his impressive season with 301 passing yards and four touchdowns, while the running game rebounded with 148 rushing yards behind Payton Brown, who averaged 6.9 yards per carry.

Head coach Tom Matukewicz's program continues to demonstrate remarkable offensive consistency, with their balanced attack creating consistent problems for Southern Illinois's typically stout defense. The Redhawks surge to No. 17 in the rankings, making one of the week's most significant jumps following their impressive victory over a top-10 opponent. Their dominant performance against SIU provides significant momentum as they continue their Big South-OVC schedule.

Southeast Missouri State enters the heart of conference play with a 3-1 record and significant confidence, having secured their fourth victory in the rivalry since 2018. The Redhawks' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the Big South-OVC. Their upset victory serves notice that SEMO must be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders heading into the middle portion of the season.

18. Lamar Cardinals (3-1) [Previous: 22]

Lamar continued its impressive start to the season with a hard-fought 20-17 victory over Texas Southern, further establishing the Cardinals as legitimate Southland Conference contenders. The Cardinals demonstrated remarkable resilience in securing their third consecutive victory, improving to 3-1 on the season and generating significant momentum heading into conference play. Their ability to secure close victories in consecutive weeks suggests a mental toughness that could serve them well in the competitive Southland Conference.

Head coach Pete Rossomando's program continues to demonstrate significant improvement, with the Cardinals building on their breakthrough upset of Weber State the previous week. Lamar moves up to No. 18 in the rankings, continuing their upward trajectory following their victory over a quality Texas Southern program. Their ability to secure another close victory provides additional confidence as they prepare for the challenging Southland schedule ahead.

Lamar enters conference play with a 3-1 record and significant momentum, having won three consecutive games since their season-opening loss. The Cardinals' balanced approach and improved execution make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the competitive Southland Conference. Their consecutive impressive performances serve notice that Lamar must be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders heading into conference play.

Final Top 25 Spots

19. Southern Illinois Salukis (2-2) [Previous: 7]

Southern Illinois suffered a disappointing 38-21 defeat to No. 21 Southeast Missouri State in the "War for the Wheel" rivalry, raising questions about the Salukis' championship aspirations. SIU struggled defensively throughout the contest, surrendering over 440 total yards and nearly 7.0 yards per play to the Redhawks' balanced attack. The setback drops them to 2-2 on the season and represents a significant blow to their national standing heading into Missouri Valley Football Conference play.

Head coach Nick Hill's program demonstrated concerning defensive vulnerabilities, with their inability to contain SEMO quarterback Paxton DeLaurent (301 passing yards, four touchdowns) proving particularly problematic. The Salukis drop twelve spots to No. 19 in the rankings, representing one of the week's most significant falls following their surprising defeat to a lower-ranked opponent. Their upcoming MVFC schedule provides an opportunity to rebound, though this setback raises significant concerns about their playoff positioning.

Southern Illinois enters conference play with a 2-2 record and considerable questions after consecutive non-conference losses to Illinois and Southeast Missouri State. The Salukis' offensive firepower still makes them dangerous against any FCS opponent, though addressing their defensive inconsistency represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their championship aspirations. Their upcoming conference tests will determine whether they can remain in the playoff conversation despite this disappointing defeat.

20. Abilene Christian Wildcats (2-2) [Previous: 19]

Abilene Christian suffered a narrow 27-24 defeat to No. 4 Idaho, demonstrating the Wildcats' legitimacy as playoff contenders despite falling short against one of the FCS's elite programs. ACU battled throughout the contest, keeping the outcome in doubt until the final moments against the highly-ranked Vandals. The setback drops them to 2-2 on the season, though their competitive performance against Idaho should maintain their national standing heading into the heart of United Athletic Conference play.

Head coach Keith Patterson's program demonstrated remarkable resilience against elite competition, building on their overtime performance against FBS Texas Tech earlier in the season. The Wildcats drop just one spot to No. 20 in the rankings despite the defeat, with the selection committee likely recognizing the quality of their performance against a top-five opponent. Their ability to compete with Idaho on equal terms provides confidence as they continue their UAC schedule.

Abilene Christian enters the heart of conference play with a 2-2 record and a 1-0 mark in UAC competition. The Wildcats' balanced approach and competitive spirit make them formidable against any FCS opponent, with their systematic attack creating a foundation for potential success in the competitive UAC. Their performance against Idaho serves notice that Abilene Christian should still be considered among the legitimate playoff contenders despite their .500 record.

21. UAlbany Great Danes (1-2) [Previous: 20]

UAlbany maintained its position in the rankings during a bye week, providing the Great Danes an opportunity to regroup after their challenging start to the season. Following losses to FBS West Virginia and Idaho, the week off allowed head coach Greg Gattuso's program to address concerns before entering Colonial Athletic Association play. Despite their 1-2 record, UAlbany remains positioned among the playoff contenders based on their impressive 2023 playoff run and the quality of their early-season competition.

The Great Danes drop just one spot to No. 21 in the rankings despite their inactivity, with the selection committee likely recognizing the significant challenges presented by their early-season schedule. The bye week provided valuable time for injured players to recover and for the coaching staff to evaluate personnel before the pivotal conference schedule begins. UAlbany's ability to compete in the challenging CAA will determine whether they can remain in the playoff conversation despite their slow start.

UAlbany enters conference play with a 1-2 record and considerable questions after consecutive losses to high-level competition. The Great Danes' championship pedigree from last season still makes them dangerous against any FCS opponent, though addressing their execution issues represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their playoff aspirations. Their upcoming conference tests will determine whether they can remain relevant in the national conversation despite their challenging start.

22. Northern Iowa Panthers (2-2) [Previous: 25]

Northern Iowa suffered a 36-7 defeat to FBS Hawaii, raising questions about the Panthers' playoff aspirations despite the elevated level of competition. UNI struggled to establish offensive consistency against the Rainbow Warriors, generating limited production while surrendering significant yardage to Hawaii's balanced attack. The setback drops them to 2-2 on the season, though they remain positioned among the playoff contenders based on their victory over St. Thomas and the challenging nature of their early-season schedule.

Head coach Mark Farley's program demonstrated concerning offensive vulnerabilities, with their inability to generate consistent production against Hawaii proving particularly problematic. The Panthers maintain their position in the rankings despite the defeat, with the selection committee likely recognizing the challenges presented by the lengthy road trip to face FBS competition. Their upcoming Missouri Valley Football Conference schedule provides an opportunity to rebound, though this setback raises questions about their offensive ceiling.

Northern Iowa enters conference play with a 2-2 record and considerable questions after their disappointing performance against Hawaii. The Panthers' championship pedigree under Farley still makes them dangerous against any FCS opponent, though addressing their offensive inconsistency represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their playoff aspirations. Their upcoming conference tests will determine whether they can remain in the playoff conversation despite this disappointing defeat.

23. Western Carolina Catamounts (1-3) [Previous: 24]

Western Carolina suffered a heartbreaking 46-35 defeat to No. 9 Montana after building a 17-point lead early in the contest, raising questions about the Catamounts' ability to close out quality opponents. WCU demonstrated remarkable offensive potential, with quarterback Cole Gonzales passing for 340 yards and two touchdowns, though they were outscored 25-8 in the second half. The setback drops them to 1-3 on the season, though they remain positioned among the playoff contenders based on the quality of their early-season schedule and competitive performances.

Head coach Kerwin Bell's program demonstrated impressive offensive capabilities but concerning defensive vulnerabilities, with their inability to contain Montana's rushing attack (349 yards, six touchdowns) proving decisive. The Catamounts drop one spot in the rankings despite the defeat, with the selection committee likely recognizing their competitive performance against a top-10 opponent on the road. Their upcoming Southern Conference schedule provides an opportunity to rebound, though this setback raises questions about their defensive consistency.

Western Carolina enters conference play with a 1-3 record and considerable questions after consecutive losses to FBS Arkansas, FBS Liberty, and now top-10 Montana. The Catamounts' offensive firepower still makes them dangerous against any FCS opponent, though addressing their defensive inconsistency represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their playoff aspirations. Their upcoming conference tests will determine whether they can remain in the playoff conversation despite their challenging start.

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

Lafayette suffered a disappointing 31-20 defeat to Columbia in its Ivy League opener, raising questions about the Leopards' playoff aspirations outside of their Patriot League automatic bid potential. Lafayette struggled to establish defensive consistency against the Lions, surrendering 31 points to a team playing its season opener. The setback drops them to 2-2 on the season and represents a significant blow to their national standing heading into Patriot League play.

Head coach John Troxell's program demonstrated concerning defensive vulnerabilities, with their inability to contain Columbia's offense proving particularly problematic after three solid defensive performances to begin the season. The Leopards drop six spots to No. 24 in the rankings, representing one of the week's significant falls following their surprising defeat to Columbia. Their upcoming Patriot League schedule provides an opportunity to rebound, though this setback raises concerns about their ability to compete outside the conference.

Lafayette enters Patriot League play with a 2-2 record and considerable questions after consecutive non-conference losses to Buffalo and Columbia. The Leopards' defensive potential still makes them dangerous against Patriot League opposition, though addressing their inconsistency represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their championship aspirations. As defending Patriot League champions, they remain favorites for the conference's automatic bid despite this disappointing defeat.

25. Chattanooga Mocs (0-3) [Previous: 23]

Chattanooga maintained its position in the rankings during a bye week, providing the Mocs an opportunity to regroup after their challenging 0-3 start to the season. Following losses to FBS Tennessee, FBS Georgia State, and Southern Conference rival Mercer, the week off allowed head coach Rusty Wright's program to address concerns before continuing their conference schedule. Despite their winless record, Chattanooga remains positioned among the playoff contenders based on their preseason expectations and the quality of their early-season competition.

The Mocs drop two spots to No. 25 in the rankings despite their inactivity, with the selection committee likely recognizing the significant challenges presented by their early-season schedule. The bye week provided valuable time for injured players to recover and for the coaching staff to evaluate personnel before continuing SoCon play. Chattanooga's ability to rebound in the challenging Southern Conference will determine whether they can remain in the playoff conversation despite their winless start.

Chattanooga enters the remainder of their conference schedule with an 0-3 record and considerable questions after consecutive losses to high-level competition. The Mocs' defensive excellence still makes them dangerous against any FCS opponent, though addressing their offensive inefficiency represents a crucial requirement for salvaging their playoff aspirations. Their upcoming conference tests will determine whether they can remain relevant in the national conversation despite their challenging start.

Conclusion

Week 4 of the FCS season delivered a compelling combination of dominant performances from top-ranked teams and thrilling matchups between ranked opponents that have further clarified the championship picture. The elite programs continued to separate themselves, with South Dakota State's 41-0 shutout of Southeastern Louisiana, North Dakota State's 41-24 victory over Towson, and Montana State's 52-13 rout of Mercyhurst demonstrating the clear gap between the championship favorites and the rest of the subdivision. Meanwhile, Idaho's hard-fought 27-24 victory over Abilene Christian reinforced the Vandals' position among the elite tier.

The weekend's most significant developments came from the other ranked matchups, with Southeast Missouri State's 38-21 upset of Southern Illinois causing significant movement in the rankings, and Montana's thrilling 46-35 comeback victory over Western Carolina showcasing both the Grizzlies' resilience and offensive firepower. Additionally, Monmouth secured perhaps the most significant victory of the weekend, defeating FBS Miami (FL) 45-42 to give the FCS its fifth win over FBS competition this season – a remarkable achievement highlighting the competitive balance across college football.

As most teams prepare to enter conference play in the coming weeks, the championship picture has gained clarity while maintaining significant intrigue. The Missouri Valley Football Conference and Big Sky Conference continue to dominate the top of the rankings, with all top ten teams coming from these two power conferences. Meanwhile, emerging programs like Mercer, Southeast Missouri State, and Lamar continue their upward trajectories, adding depth to an already competitive playoff field. With the road to Frisco becoming increasingly defined through these early-season results, Week 4 represented another significant step toward determining which programs have legitimate championship aspirations in 2024.