Week 9 FCS Football Top 25: Race for Conference Titles Intensifies as Playoff Picture Takes Shape

The Week 9 slate delivered several nail-biting finishes and dramatic outcomes that have further clarified the FCS playoff picture as we enter November. The marquee matchup between South Dakota State and South Dakota lived up to its billing with an overtime thriller, while North Dakota suffered a stunning overtime defeat at Youngstown State that significantly impacts the Missouri Valley Football Conference race. As conference play intensifies, separation between contenders and pretenders has become increasingly apparent, with several programs positioning themselves for automatic bids while others find themselves squarely on the playoff bubble.

North Dakota State continued its dominance atop the FCS landscape with another commanding performance, while Montana State maintained its perfect record during a bye week. UC Davis and Southeast Missouri solidified their positions as legitimate championship contenders, while emerging programs like Stony Brook announced themselves with statement victories. The Week 9 results have solidified the upper echelon of championship favorites while creating compelling conference races that will captivate FCS fans through the final month of regular season play.

As we analyze this week's rankings, the playoff implications become increasingly significant with just three weeks remaining before Selection Sunday. The Missouri Valley continues to demonstrate its status as the premier FCS conference with multiple legitimate championship contenders, while the Big Sky, Colonial Athletic Association, and United Athletic Conference feature compelling multi-team races that will likely remain unresolved until the regular season's final weekend. With November football upon us, the push for conference championships and playoff positioning takes center stage across the Football Championship Subdivision.

The Elite Tier: Championship Favorites

1. North Dakota State Bison (8-1, 5-0 MVFC) [Previous: 1]

The Bison continued their post-Dakota Marker dominance with a 59-6 dismantling of Murray State, extending their winning streak to six games while remaining perfect in Missouri Valley Football Conference play. Quarterback Cam Miller orchestrated another efficient offensive performance, accounting for three total touchdowns in limited action before reserves took over in the second half. The victory was North Dakota State's most lopsided of the season, as they outgained the Racers 512-181 in total yardage.

Head coach Matt Entz's program continues to demonstrate championship-level execution in all three phases. Their defense limited Murray State to just 2-of-13 on third-down conversions while forcing three turnovers, including a pick-six from cornerback Cole Wisniewski. The Bison's ground game was particularly impressive, amassing 318 rushing yards behind a dominant offensive line that consistently created running lanes against an overmatched Murray State front seven.

North Dakota State faces a more challenging test in Week 10 as they host Northern Iowa, a program known for occasionally upsetting the MVFC's elite. The Bison remain firmly positioned for both the MVFC automatic bid and the top overall seed in the FCS playoffs, with their physical style and championship pedigree making them the team to beat in the subdivision. Their remaining schedule includes challenging matchups with Illinois State and South Dakota, but the Bison control their playoff destiny following their signature victory over South Dakota State.

2. Montana State Bobcats (8-0, 4-0 Big Sky) [Previous: 2]

Montana State maintained its perfect record during a bye week, benefiting from additional preparation time before a challenging road trip to Eastern Washington in Week 10. The Bobcats remain one of just two undefeated teams in the FCS alongside Dartmouth (which doesn't participate in the playoffs), with their balanced offensive attack and stifling defense establishing them as clear championship contenders.

Head coach Brent Vigen's program has demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the season, with their closest margin of victory being a three-point win over Portland State in Week 8. Their offense has averaged 36.1 points per game behind quarterback Tommy Mellott's dual-threat abilities, while their defense has limited opponents to just 17.9 points per contest. The Bobcats' perfect record includes an FBS victory over Washington State, further validating their championship credentials.

Montana State returns to action in Week 10 against Eastern Washington, beginning a four-game stretch that will determine their playoff seeding and Big Sky championship aspirations. With UC Davis positioned as their primary challenger in the conference race, the Bobcats' November 16 matchup with the Aggies looms as a potential de facto Big Sky championship game. Montana State remains positioned for a top-two seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide home-field advantage through the semifinals.

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

South Dakota State secured a crucial rivalry victory with a 20-17 overtime triumph over fourth-ranked South Dakota in the South Dakota Showdown Series. Running back Amar Johnson delivered the game-winning touchdown in overtime, while the Jackrabbits' defense limited South Dakota's typically explosive offense to just 14 points (with the Coyotes' other score coming on a defensive touchdown). The victory keeps SDSU firmly in the MVFC championship conversation despite their earlier loss to North Dakota State.

The two-time defending national champions demonstrated their championship resilience, overcoming adversity in a game that featured multiple momentum swings. After building a 14-0 lead, South Dakota State surrendered 17 consecutive points before regrouping in overtime. Quarterback Mark Gronowski managed the game effectively despite not posting his typical statistical production, while the Jackrabbits' defense made critical stops throughout the contest, particularly in overtime after South Dakota settled for a field goal.

South Dakota State hosts Murray State in Week 10, looking to build momentum before a challenging late-season schedule that includes Illinois State and South Dakota. The Jackrabbits remain positioned for a potential top-four seed in the FCS playoffs despite their two losses, with their championship pedigree and strength of schedule working in their favor. Their path to a third consecutive national championship remains viable despite no longer controlling their destiny in the MVFC race.

4. UC Davis Aggies (7-1, 4-0 Big Sky) [Previous: 5]

UC Davis maintained its perfect Big Sky record during a bye week, benefiting from additional preparation time before hosting Northern Colorado in Week 10. The Aggies have emerged as Montana State's primary challenger in the conference race, with their balanced offensive attack and opportunistic defense establishing them as legitimate championship contenders.

Head coach Dan Hawkins' program has demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the season, with their lone loss coming against FBS California in the season opener. Their offense has averaged 32.9 points per game behind quarterback Miles Hastings' efficient leadership, while their defense has limited opponents to just 19.1 points per contest. The Aggies' perfect conference record includes signature victories over Idaho and Sacramento State, validating their championship credentials.

UC Davis returns to action in Week 10 against Northern Colorado, beginning a four-game stretch that will determine their playoff seeding and Big Sky championship aspirations. With Montana State also undefeated in conference play, the Aggies' November 16 matchup with the Bobcats looms as a potential de facto Big Sky championship game. UC Davis has positioned itself for a potential top-four seed in the FCS playoffs, which would provide home-field advantage through the quarterfinals.

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

South Dakota suffered a heartbreaking 20-17 overtime loss to South Dakota State in the South Dakota Showdown Series, falling just short in their bid to remain perfect in Missouri Valley Football Conference play. The Coyotes demonstrated remarkable resilience, erasing a 14-0 deficit with 17 consecutive points, including a scoop-and-score touchdown from Mi'Quise Grace with 4:41 remaining in regulation. However, they settled for a field goal in overtime before surrendering the game-winning touchdown.

Head coach Bob Nielson's program continues to demonstrate they belong among the FCS elite despite the setback. Their defense limited South Dakota State's typically explosive offense to just 20 points and 329 total yards, while generating consistent pressure on Jackrabbits quarterback Mark Gronowski. The Coyotes' offense struggled to find consistent rhythm against a stout SDSU defense, but demonstrated impressive late-game execution to force overtime.

South Dakota has a bye in Week 10 before hosting Southern Illinois on November 9, beginning a three-game stretch that will determine their playoff seeding and MVFC championship aspirations. Despite no longer controlling their destiny in the conference race, the Coyotes 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 overall body of work, including five wins over FCS opponents by 20+ points, keeps them firmly in the championship conversation.

Championship Contenders

6. Southeast Missouri Redhawks (8-1, 5-0 Big South-OVC) [Previous: 6]

Southeast Missouri maintained its perfect Big South-OVC record with a hard-fought 30-24 victory over Gardner-Webb, extending the nation's longest conference winning streak to 17 games. Quarterback Paxton DeLaurent delivered another efficient performance, passing for 287 yards and three touchdowns while the Redhawks' defense generated two crucial turnovers. The victory solidifies SEMO's position atop the conference standings and extends their overall winning streak to eight games.

Head coach Tom Matukewicz's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency on both sides of the ball. Their offense has averaged 35.2 points per game during their winning streak, while their defense has limited conference opponents to just 16.8 points per contest. The Redhawks' only loss came against FBS Kansas State in their season opener, while they've been dominant against FCS competition, particularly in conference play.

Southeast Missouri has a bye in Week 10 before hosting Eastern Illinois on November 9, beginning a three-game stretch that will determine their playoff seeding and Big South-OVC championship aspirations. As clear favorites for the conference's automatic bid, the Redhawks 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 balanced approach and experience make them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts.

7. Tarleton State Texans (7-1, 4-0 UAC) [Previous: 8]

Tarleton State maintained its perfect United Athletic Conference record with a convincing 27-17 victory over Austin Peay, extending its winning streak to six games. Quarterback Victor Gabalis continued his efficient play, passing for 263 yards and two touchdowns while the Texans' defense limited Austin Peay to just 95 rushing yards. The victory solidifies Tarleton State's position atop the UAC standings alongside Abilene Christian heading into the season's final month.

Head coach Todd Whitten's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency on both sides of the ball. Their offense has averaged 34.1 points per game during their winning streak, while their defense has limited opponents to just 18.3 points per contest. The Texans' only loss came against FBS TCU in their second game, while they've been perfect against FCS competition, including signature victories over Eastern Kentucky and North Alabama.

Tarleton State hosts Eastern Kentucky in Week 10, looking to maintain momentum before a potential conference championship showdown with Abilene Christian on November 9. As co-leaders in the UAC race, the Texans control their destiny for the conference's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs. Their balanced approach and veteran leadership have positioned them as legitimate championship contenders as the regular season enters its final month.

8. Montana Grizzlies (6-2, 3-1 Big Sky) [Previous: 9]

Montana secured its second consecutive victory with a dominant 24-0 shutout of Northern Colorado, the program's first shutout in three years. Quarterback Clifton McDowell managed the game effectively, passing for 212 yards and two touchdowns while the Grizzlies' defense limited Northern Colorado to just 176 total yards. The victory keeps Montana firmly in the Big Sky championship conversation despite their earlier conference loss to Weber State.

Head coach Bobby Hauck's program continues to demonstrate impressive resilience following their surprising loss to Weber State in Week 6. Their defense, which surrendered 55 points in that defeat, has allowed just 14 points total in their last two games while generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Grizzlies' balanced offensive approach produced 406 total yards against Northern Colorado, with running back Xavier Harris adding 87 yards on the ground.

Montana travels to Cal Poly in Week 10, looking to maintain momentum before a challenging late-season schedule that includes Idaho and Montana State. The Grizzlies remain in contention for an at-large playoff berth and potential seed, with their championship pedigree and improving play making them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts. Their remaining schedule provides opportunities to enhance their resume and build momentum entering the postseason.

9. Incarnate Word Cardinals (6-2, 3-0 Southland) [Previous: 10]

Incarnate Word maintained its perfect Southland Conference record with a thrilling 34-31 victory over Southeastern Louisiana, surviving a back-and-forth contest that featured multiple lead changes. Quarterback Zach Calzada delivered another impressive performance, passing for 318 yards and three touchdowns while the Cardinals' defense made crucial stops in the fourth quarter. The victory solidifies UIW's position atop the Southland standings and extends their winning streak to four games.

Head coach Clint Killough's program continues to showcase the explosive offense that has become their trademark. The Cardinals have averaged 42.8 points per game during their winning streak, with their diverse passing attack creating matchup problems for opposing defenses. UIW's defense remains inconsistent but demonstrated important resilience against Southeastern Louisiana, generating two crucial turnovers while making critical fourth-quarter stops.

Incarnate Word hosts Houston Christian in Week 10, looking to maintain momentum in the Southland Conference race. As the only remaining undefeated team in conference play, the Cardinals control their destiny for the automatic bid to the FCS playoffs. Their offensive firepower makes them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts, though their defensive inconsistency could be problematic against elite competition in the postseason.

10. Idaho Vandals (6-3, 3-2 Big Sky) [Previous: 11]

Idaho secured its second consecutive conference victory with an impressive 38-28 win over Eastern Washington, overcoming an early deficit to maintain positioning in the Big Sky race. Quarterback Jack Layne continued his steady play, passing for 276 yards and two touchdowns while the Vandals' ground game added 157 rushing yards. The victory keeps Idaho firmly in the at-large playoff conversation despite their earlier conference setbacks.

Head coach Jason Eck's program continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, having rebounded from consecutive conference losses earlier in the season. Their defense, which has been inconsistent at times, limited Eastern Washington to just 95 rushing yards while generating three crucial turnovers. The Vandals' balanced offensive approach has been particularly effective in recent weeks, with running back Elisha Cummings emerging as a consistent playmaker alongside Layne.

Idaho has a bye in Week 10 before hosting Idaho State on November 9, beginning a three-game stretch that will determine their playoff positioning. While no longer controlling their destiny in the Big Sky race, the Vandals remain positioned for an at-large playoff berth and potential seed. Their balanced approach and physical style make them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts, particularly if their defense continues its recent improvement.

Playoff Contenders

11. Central Arkansas Bears (6-2, 3-1 UAC) [Previous: 12]

Central Arkansas maintained its position in the United Athletic Conference race with a hard-fought 24-19 victory over North Alabama, surviving a late comeback attempt from the Lions. Quarterback Will Collins delivered another efficient performance, passing for 244 yards and two touchdowns while the Bears' defense limited North Alabama to just 89 rushing yards. The victory keeps Central Arkansas firmly in contention for an at-large playoff berth despite their earlier conference loss to Abilene Christian.

Head coach Nathan Brown's program continues to demonstrate impressive balance on both sides of the ball. Their defense has been particularly strong against the run, forcing opponents into predictable passing situations while generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Bears' balanced offensive approach has been effective throughout the season, with running back ShunDerrick Powell providing consistent production alongside Collins' steady leadership.

Central Arkansas travels to Utah Tech in Week 10, looking to maintain momentum in the United Athletic Conference race. While needing help to secure the automatic bid following their loss to Abilene Christian, the Bears remain in strong position for an at-large playoff berth. Their victory over FBS Arkansas State continues to strengthen their resume, while their balanced approach makes them dangerous against any opponent in the subdivision.

12. Mercer Bears (7-1, 4-1 SoCon) [Previous: 14]

Mercer secured a crucial Southern Conference victory with a high-scoring 44-34 win over Western Carolina, surviving a back-and-forth shootout to maintain positioning atop the conference standings. Running back Al Wooten II delivered a career performance with 178 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while quarterback Lance Wise efficiently managed the game with 212 passing yards and two scores. The victory keeps the Bears firmly in control of their destiny in the SoCon race despite their earlier conference loss to The Citadel.

Head coach Drew Cronic's program demonstrated impressive offensive firepower against a typically strong Western Carolina defense. The Bears amassed 486 total yards, including 274 on the ground, while converting 9-of-13 third-down opportunities. Mercer's defense struggled at times against Western Carolina's explosive attack but made crucial stops in the fourth quarter to preserve the victory.

Mercer hosts ETSU in Week 10 for another challenging Southern Conference test, looking to maintain momentum in the conference race. The Bears control their destiny for the SoCon's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs, with their balanced approach and explosive offense making them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts. Their only loss came against The Citadel in a surprising upset, while they've been impressive in their other contests against both conference and non-conference competition.

13. Villanova Wildcats (6-2, 3-1 CAA) [Previous: 13]

Villanova maintained its position in the Colonial Athletic Association race with a hard-fought 14-6 victory over New Hampshire, surviving a defensive struggle to remain firmly in contention for the conference's automatic bid. Quarterback Connor Watkins managed the game effectively despite challenging weather conditions, while the Wildcats' defense limited New Hampshire to just 223 total yards. The victory keeps Villanova firmly in the CAA championship conversation despite their earlier conference loss to Richmond.

Head coach Mark Ferrante's program demonstrated impressive defensive prowess against a typically productive New Hampshire offense. The Wildcats limited the Wildcats of UNH to just 88 rushing yards while forcing two critical turnovers. Villanova's ground game was effective despite the challenging conditions, with running back TD Ayo-Durojaiye providing 87 tough yards against a stout New Hampshire front seven.

Villanova travels to Hampton in Week 10, looking to maintain momentum in the Colonial Athletic Association race. While no longer controlling their destiny for the automatic bid following their loss to Richmond, the Wildcats remain positioned for an at-large playoff berth and potential seed. Their balanced approach and defensive excellence make them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts, particularly if their offense can find more consistency in the season's final month.

14. Rhode Island Rams (7-1, 4-0 CAA) [Previous: 15]

Rhode Island maintained its perfect Colonial Athletic Association record with a workmanlike 24-14 victory over Maine, overcoming a slow start to remain atop the conference standings. Quarterback Malik Grant engineered an efficient offensive performance, accounting for two total touchdowns while the Rams' defense limited Maine to just 265 total yards. The victory extends Rhode Island's winning streak to six games and solidifies their position as legitimate CAA championship contenders.

Head coach Jim Fleming's program continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency on both sides of the ball. Their defense has been particularly impressive during their winning streak, limiting opponents to just 16.7 points per game while generating multiple turnovers. The Rams' balanced offensive approach has been effective throughout the season, with running back Ja'Den McKenzie providing consistent production alongside Grant's steady leadership.

Rhode Island hosts Monmouth in Week 10, looking to maintain momentum in the Colonial Athletic Association race. As one of two remaining undefeated teams in conference play alongside Richmond, the Rams control their destiny for the CAA's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs. Their November 16 showdown with the Spiders looms as a potential de facto conference championship game, with significant implications for both the automatic bid and playoff seeding.

15. North Dakota Fighting Hawks (5-3, 2-2 MVFC) [Previous: 7]

North Dakota suffers the largest drop in our rankings following their stunning 41-40 overtime loss at Youngstown State, a game in which they surrendered a 17-point fourth-quarter lead. Quarterback Simon Romfo delivered a solid individual performance with 315 passing yards and three touchdowns, but the Fighting Hawks' defense struggled to contain Youngstown State quarterback Beau Brungard in the second half. The defeat severely damages North Dakota's Missouri Valley Football Conference championship hopes, though they remain firmly in the at-large playoff conversation.

Head coach Bubba Schweigert's program demonstrated offensive firepower but uncharacteristic defensive vulnerability against a motivated Youngstown State squad. The Fighting Hawks amassed 488 total yards but surrendered 504, including 322 through the air. North Dakota's typically reliable defense allowed Youngstown State to convert 11-of-17 third-down opportunities, preventing them from securing crucial stops during the Penguins' comeback.

North Dakota travels to Indiana State in Week 10, looking to rebound from their disappointing defeat. While no longer controlling their destiny in the MVFC race, the Fighting Hawks remain positioned for an at-large playoff berth given their overall body of work. Their remaining schedule includes winnable games against Indiana State, Murray State, and South Dakota, providing opportunities to strengthen their resume before Selection Sunday.

16. Richmond Spiders (6-2, 4-0 CAA) [Previous: 18]

Richmond continued its impressive Colonial Athletic Association campaign with a dominant 41-14 victory over Bryant, extending the program's conference winning streak to four games. Quarterback Kyle Wickersham orchestrated an efficient offensive performance, accounting for 285 yards of total offense and three touchdowns while the Spiders' defense limited Bryant to just 245 total yards. The victory maintains Richmond's perfect conference record and establishes them as legitimate CAA championship contenders.

Head coach Russ Huesman's program continues to demonstrate impressive balance on both sides of the ball. Their defense has been particularly strong during their conference winning streak, limiting CAA opponents to just 14.8 points per game while generating multiple turnovers. The Spiders' balanced offensive approach has been effective throughout the season, with running back Savon Smith providing consistent production alongside Wickersham's steady leadership.

Richmond hosts Towson in Week 10, looking to maintain momentum in the Colonial Athletic Association race. As one of two remaining undefeated teams in conference play alongside Rhode Island, the Spiders control their destiny for the CAA's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs. Their November 16 showdown with the Rams looms as a potential de facto conference championship game, with significant implications for both the automatic bid and playoff seeding.

17. Abilene Christian Wildcats (5-3, 4-1 UAC) [Previous: 17]

Abilene Christian maintained its position atop the United Athletic Conference standings during a bye week, benefiting from additional preparation time before hosting Southern Utah in Week 10. The Wildcats have established themselves as legitimate conference championship contenders in just their second season under head coach Keith Patterson, with their balanced offensive attack and improved defense making them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts.

Head coach Keith Patterson's program has demonstrated remarkable consistency in conference play, with their only UAC loss coming against Eastern Kentucky in a competitive contest. Their offense has averaged 37.6 points per game in conference play, with quarterback Maverick McIvor establishing himself as one of the subdivision's most productive passers. Defensively, the Wildcats have shown significant improvement throughout the season, particularly against the run.

Abilene Christian returns to action in Week 10 against Southern Utah, looking to maintain momentum before a potential conference championship showdown with Tarleton State on November 9. The Wildcats control their destiny for the UAC's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs, with their head-to-head victory over Central Arkansas providing the crucial tiebreaker. Their balanced approach and veteran leadership have positioned them as legitimate playoff contenders as the regular season enters its final month.

18. Chattanooga Mocs (5-3, 4-1 SoCon) [Previous: 19]

Chattanooga secured its fourth consecutive Southern Conference victory with a convincing 31-10 win over VMI, continuing its remarkable turnaround following an 0-3 start. Quarterback Chase Artopoeus delivered an efficient performance, passing for 235 yards and two touchdowns while the Mocs' defense limited VMI to just 245 total yards. The victory keeps Chattanooga firmly in contention for the SoCon's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs despite its challenging start to the season.

Head coach Rusty Wright's program continues to demonstrate impressive balance on both sides of the ball. Their defense has been particularly strong during their conference winning streak, limiting SoCon opponents to just 17.8 points per game while generating multiple turnovers. The Mocs' balanced offensive approach has been effective throughout conference play, with running back Gino Appleberry providing consistent production alongside Artopoeus' steady leadership.

Chattanooga travels to Western Carolina in Week 10 for another challenging Southern Conference test, looking to maintain momentum in the conference race. The Mocs remain firmly in contention for the SoCon's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs, with their only conference loss coming against Mercer in a competitive contest. Their balanced approach and defensive excellence make them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts, particularly if they can secure the conference's automatic bid.

19. North Carolina Central Eagles (6-2, 2-0 MEAC) [Previous: 20]

North Carolina Central maintained its perfect Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference record with a hard-fought 16-7 victory over Morgan State, extending the program's conference winning streak to 11 games. The Eagles' defense delivered a dominant performance, limiting Morgan State to just 176 total yards while generating three turnovers. The victory solidifies NC Central's position atop the MEAC standings and keeps them firmly on track for a third consecutive Celebration Bowl appearance.

Head coach Trei Oliver's program continues to demonstrate the defensive excellence that has become their trademark. The Eagles have limited MEAC opponents to just 8.5 points per game this season, while generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. NC Central's offense remains a work in progress but demonstrated important resilience against Morgan State, converting crucial third downs in the second half to maintain possession and protect their lead.

North Carolina Central travels to South Carolina State on Halloween night for a matchup that could potentially decide the MEAC championship and Celebration Bowl berth. The Eagles control their destiny in the conference race, with their defensive prowess making them favorites to secure a third consecutive MEAC title. While not eligible for the FCS playoffs due to the MEAC's automatic berth to the Celebration Bowl, NC Central has established itself as one of the top programs in HBCU football.

20. Stony Brook Seawolves (6-2, 3-1 CAA) [Previous: Unranked]

Stony Brook enters our rankings following their impressive 35-13 victory over previously 16th-ranked William & Mary, the program's third consecutive Colonial Athletic Association win. Quarterback Tyler Ridder orchestrated an efficient offensive performance, passing for 287 yards and three touchdowns while the Seawolves' defense limited William & Mary to just 289 total yards. The victory establishes Stony Brook as legitimate contenders in the competitive CAA race despite their earlier conference loss to Richmond.

Head coach Chuck Priore's program continues to demonstrate impressive resilience, having rebounded from consecutive losses earlier in the season. Their defense has been particularly strong during their winning streak, limiting opponents to just 16.3 points per game while generating multiple turnovers. The Seawolves' balanced offensive approach has been effective throughout the season, with running back Roland Dempster providing consistent production alongside Ridder's steady leadership.

Stony Brook travels to Bryant in Week 10, looking to maintain momentum in the Colonial Athletic Association race. While needing help to secure the automatic bid following their loss to Richmond, the Seawolves have positioned themselves firmly in the at-large playoff conversation. Their remaining schedule includes challenging matchups with Rhode Island and Villanova, providing opportunities to enhance their resume before Selection Sunday.

Final Top 25 Spots

21. Illinois State Redbirds (5-3, 2-2 MVFC) [Previous: 21]

Illinois State maintained its national ranking during a bye week, benefiting from additional preparation time before hosting Youngstown State in Week 10. The Redbirds have established themselves as one of the Missouri Valley Football Conference's most physical teams, with their balanced offensive attack and stout defense making them dangerous against any opponent in the subdivision.

Head coach Brock Spack's program has demonstrated impressive resilience throughout the season, with their three losses coming against South Dakota, North Dakota State, and South Dakota State—all ranked in the top five. Their offense has found consistency behind quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse's steady leadership, while their defense has been particularly strong against the run, forcing opponents into predictable passing situations.

Illinois State returns to action in Week 10 against Youngstown State, looking to build momentum before a challenging late-season schedule that includes Southern Illinois and Western Illinois. While facing an uphill battle in the MVFC race with two conference losses, the Redbirds remain firmly in the at-large playoff conversation. Their signature victory over Northern Iowa continues to strengthen their resume, with opportunities for additional quality wins in the season's final month.

22. Dartmouth Big Green (6-0, 3-0 Ivy) [Previous: 22]

Dartmouth maintained its perfect record with a hard-fought 24-21 victory over Columbia, surviving a late comeback attempt from the Lions to remain atop the Ivy League standings. Quarterback Jackson Proctor managed the game effectively, accounting for two total touchdowns while the Big Green's defense limited Columbia to just 112 rushing yards. The victory extends Dartmouth's winning streak to six games and solidifies their position as Ivy League championship favorites.

Head coach Buddy Teevens' program continues to demonstrate impressive balance on both sides of the ball. Their defense has been particularly strong this season, limiting opponents to just 17.8 points per game while generating multiple turnovers. The Big Green's balanced offensive approach has been effective throughout the season, with running back Q Jones providing consistent production alongside Proctor's steady leadership.

Dartmouth hosts Harvard in Week 10 for a matchup with significant Ivy League championship implications, as the Crimson also remain undefeated in conference play. While Ivy League programs aren't eligible for the FCS playoffs, the Big Green have established themselves as one of the subdivision's most consistent programs. Their balanced approach and defensive excellence make them legitimate contenders for the Ivy League championship, which would represent their second consecutive conference title.

23. ETSU Buccaneers (5-3, 3-1 SoCon) [Previous: 23]

ETSU secured its third consecutive Southern Conference victory with a workmanlike 24-7 win over Wofford, continuing its remarkable turnaround following a challenging start to the season. Quarterback Baron May engineered an efficient offensive performance, accounting for two total touchdowns while the Buccaneers' defense limited Wofford to just 245 total yards. The victory keeps ETSU firmly in contention for the SoCon's automatic bid to the FCS playoffs despite its non-conference struggles.

Head coach George Quarles' program continues to demonstrate impressive resilience, having rebounded from early-season setbacks. Their defense has been particularly strong during their conference winning streak, limiting SoCon opponents to just 14.3 points per game while generating multiple turnovers. The Buccaneers' balanced offensive approach has been effective throughout conference play, with running back Bryson Irby providing consistent production alongside May's steady leadership.

ETSU travels to Mercer in Week 10 for a matchup with significant Southern Conference championship implications, as both programs remain firmly in contention for the automatic bid. The Buccaneers control their destiny in the conference race, with victories in their remaining SoCon games guaranteeing at least a share of the conference championship. Their balanced approach and defensive excellence make them dangerous in both regular-season and playoff contexts, particularly if they can secure the conference's automatic bid.

24. William & Mary Tribe (5-3, 3-2 CAA) [Previous: 16]

William & Mary suffers a significant drop in our rankings following their surprising 35-13 defeat at Stony Brook, a game in which they surrendered 35 consecutive points after taking an early lead. Quarterback Darius Wilson struggled with consistency throughout the contest, while the Tribe's typically reliable defense surrendered 414 total yards. The loss severely damages William & Mary's Colonial Athletic Association championship hopes, though they remain firmly in the at-large playoff conversation.

Head coach Mike London's program has demonstrated inconsistency throughout the season, with impressive victories over Coastal Carolina (FBS) and Campbell balanced by surprising defeats against Towson and now Stony Brook. Their offense, which had been among the CAA's most explosive units, was limited to just 289 total yards by the Seawolves, while their defense struggled to contain Stony Brook quarterback Tyler Ridder.

William & Mary travels to North Carolina A&T in Week 10, looking to rebound from their disappointing defeat. While facing an uphill battle in the CAA race with two conference losses, the Tribe remain firmly in the at-large playoff conversation. Their FBS victory over Coastal Carolina continues to strengthen their resume, with opportunities for additional quality wins in the season's final month.

25. Tennessee State Tigers (6-2, 3-1 Big South-OVC) [Previous: 25]

Tennessee State maintained its national ranking during a bye week, benefiting from additional preparation time before hosting UT Martin in Week 10. The Tigers have established themselves as legitimate contenders in the Big South-OVC Association, with their balanced offensive attack and stout defense making them dangerous against any opponent in the subdivision.

Head coach Eddie George's program has demonstrated remarkable improvement in his fourth season, with their only losses coming against Middle Tennessee (FBS) and Gardner-Webb in a competitive conference contest. Their defense has been particularly impressive this season, limiting opponents to just 18.1 points per game while generating multiple turnovers. The Tigers' balanced offensive approach has been effective throughout the season, with quarterback Draylen Ellis providing steady leadership.

Tennessee State returns to action in Week 10 against UT Martin in a matchup with significant Big South-OVC implications, as both programs remain firmly in contention for the automatic bid. The Tigers have positioned themselves on the playoff bubble, with their strong overall record and conference standing supporting their case for at-large consideration should they fall short of the automatic bid. Their balanced approach and improved play make them dangerous against any opponent in the subdivision.

Conclusion

As we enter November with just three weeks remaining in the regular season, the FCS playoff picture has begun to clarify while still maintaining intriguing uncertainty across multiple conferences. The traditional powers at the top—North Dakota State, Montana State, and South Dakota State—have separated themselves as the clear championship favorites, with their dominant performances against quality competition establishing them as the teams to beat. These three programs appear destined for high playoff seeds and remain on a collision course for the semifinals in December.

The Week 9 results further solidified the upper echelon of championship contenders while creating compelling races for automatic bids across the subdivision. South Dakota State's overtime victory over South Dakota dramatically reshapes the Missouri Valley Football Conference race, though both programs remain firmly in the national championship conversation. The Big Sky features a fascinating three-way battle between Montana State, UC Davis, and Montana, while the Colonial Athletic Association race has evolved into a compelling duel between Richmond and Rhode Island following Villanova's earlier setback.

As we look ahead to the final three weeks of regular-season play, the push for conference championships and playoff positioning takes center stage across the Football Championship Subdivision. With the selection committee set to reveal its initial top-10 ranking this week, programs across the country will gain valuable insight into their current playoff positioning. The race for the crucial top-eight seeds, which receive first-round byes and home-field advantage in the second round, features legitimate contenders from multiple conferences, ensuring a dramatic conclusion to the 2024 regular season.