2025 FCS Football Top 25 - Week 1: Championship Seasons Begins With Championship Expectations

The 2025 FCS football season opens with unparalleled anticipation as defending national champion North Dakota State looks to begin another championship run. The Bison, installed as unanimous preseason favorites with 54 of 56 first-place votes in the Stats Perform poll, face their first test against The Citadel on Saturday. Montana State, the 2024 championship game runner-up, enters the season as the clear second choice after an impressive 15-1 campaign that ended in heartbreak against NDSU. The Missouri Valley Football Conference dominates early expectations with five teams in the preseason top 25, while the Big Sky Conference counters with six ranked programs.

Week 1 features 87 games involving FCS teams, including 47 matchups against FBS opponents and two crucial Top 25 showdowns. The marquee FCS-vs-FCS matchup pits Richmond at Lehigh in a rematch of last year's first-round playoff thriller, while Sacramento State's Brennan Marion makes his head coaching debut in a statement game at South Dakota State. These early tests will immediately separate legitimate title contenders from preseason pretenders as conferences begin establishing their playoff credentials.

The Elite Tier: Championship Favorites (Teams 1-5)

1. North Dakota State Bison (0-0)

The defending national champions open their title defense with championship-caliber talent across the roster, returning 11 starters from the team that captured the program's 10th FCS title in 14 seasons. Senior quarterback Cole Payton leads an experienced offense that features All-America wide receiver Bryce Lance, who provides veteran leadership in the passing game. The ground attack remains formidable with a deep backfield led by senior Owen Johnson and sophomore DJ Scott, complementing a line anchored by All-America center Trent Fraley. Defensively, the Bison return All-America linebacker Logan Kopp and junior defensive end Toby Anene, providing the foundation for a unit that allowed just 17.5 points per game during their championship run.

Head coach Tim Polasek enters his second season with the program's championship culture firmly established, though he acknowledges this team lacks the senior-heavy leadership of last year's squad. The Bison's championship pedigree and systematic approach to developing talent makes them the clear favorite, but their true championship mettle won't be tested until conference play begins in October. Their season opener at The Citadel provides a measuring stick against a Southern Conference opponent looking to make an early statement.

2. Montana State Bobcats (0-0)

The Bobcats return to championship contention mode after falling just short in the 2024 title game, bringing back the core of a team that posted a remarkable 15-1 record. Preseason Big Sky MVP Adam Jones headlines the offense after a sensational freshman campaign that saw him rush for 1,172 yards and 14 touchdowns while setting multiple program records. The Missoula native's explosive playmaking ability was showcased by back-to-back signature runs - a 93-yard touchdown at New Mexico to spark a comeback and an 88-yard score against Montana to clinch the regular season finale. Quarterback Tommy Mellott returns to lead an attack that also features All-Big Sky selections in receiver Taco Dowler and offensive lineman Titan Fleischmann.

Defensively, the Bobcats reload with returning starters Paul Brott and Kenneth Eiden IV anchoring the defensive line, providing continuity for coordinator Kane Ioane's aggressive scheme. Head coach Brent Vigen has built sustainable success through superior player development and strategic recruiting, with this year's team possessing the talent and experience necessary for another championship run. Their early-season test against Oregon provides valuable FBS competition before diving into Big Sky play, where they'll face a loaded conference featuring multiple ranked opponents.

3. South Dakota State Jackrabbits (0-0)

The two-time FCS champions from 2020 and 2022 enter the season with championship expectations after a 12-3 campaign that ended in the national semifinals. The Jackrabbits return a veteran core led by All-America selections including center Quinten Christensen and defensive lineman Kobe Clayborne, providing stability on both sides of the ball. Head coach Jimmy Rogers has established SDSU as a perennial championship contender through consistent recruiting and player development, with this year's team possessing the depth and experience to make another title run.

The Jackrabbits face an immediate championship-caliber test when Sacramento State visits Brookings for new head coach Brennan Marion's debut. This marquee matchup will provide early insight into both programs' legitimate championship aspirations, with SDSU needing to establish early dominance against a Hornets team loaded with transfer talent. The Missouri Valley Football Conference's strength means every league game will be a playoff resume builder, making early non-conference success crucial for postseason seeding.

4. South Dakota Coyotes (0-0)

The Coyotes bring championship-level talent back to Vermillion after reaching the national semifinals and sharing the MVFC title alongside NDSU and SDSU. Quarterback Aidan Bouman returns as one of the conference's premier signal-callers, complemented by All-America running back Charles Pierre Jr. who provides explosive playmaking ability in the backfield. The offensive line features multiple returning starters who paved the way for one of the FCS's most balanced attacks in 2024.

Head coach Bob Nielson has transformed USD into a consistent championship contender through strategic recruiting and innovative offensive schemes that maximize player talent. Their early-season test at Iowa State provides valuable FBS experience before conference play, where they'll need to navigate the brutal MVFC gauntlet that includes defending champion NDSU and fellow title contenders SDSU. The Coyotes' championship window remains wide open with this experienced roster capable of making another deep playoff run.

5. Incarnate Word Cardinals (0-0)

The defending Southland Conference champions arrive with championship aspirations despite early-season struggles, possessing the offensive firepower and coaching continuity necessary for another deep playoff run. Head coach G.J. Kinne has established UIW as a consistent championship contender through innovative offensive schemes and strategic transfer portal acquisitions. The Cardinals' high-powered passing attack returns key contributors who helped the program reach new heights in recent seasons.

UIW's championship credentials were tested early when they suffered a surprising upset loss to Nicholls in Week 0, demonstrating the parity and competitive balance throughout the FCS landscape. This early setback provides valuable adversity that could ultimately strengthen the Cardinals' championship resolve, as they possess the talent and coaching necessary to bounce back and compete for both conference and national titles. Their remaining schedule includes multiple opportunities to build playoff resume strength while fine-tuning their championship aspirations.

Championship Contenders (Teams 6-10)

6. Illinois State Redbirds (0-0) 

The Redbirds enter with legitimate championship aspirations behind one of the FCS's most dynamic offensive trios in quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse, running back Wenkers Wright, and receiver Daniel Sobkowicz. Wright earned second-team All-America honors after a dominant season, while Sobkowicz provides elite receiving talent that creates matchup problems for opposing defenses. Defensively, linebacker Tye Niekamp and defensive tackle Jake Anderson anchor a front seven capable of controlling games against elite competition.

The MVFC's brutal championship path means Illinois State must navigate games against NDSU, SDSU, and USD while competing for both conference titles and playoff positioning. Head coach Brock Spack has built consistent championship-level recruiting and development, with this year's roster possessing the talent necessary to compete with the league's elite programs. Their championship window depends heavily on winning key conference matchups that will determine both league standings and playoff seeding.

7. UC Davis Aggies (0-0) 

The Aggies bring championship-level talent to the Big Sky Conference after a strong 2024 campaign, led by preseason defensive MVP Rex Connors who anchors one of the FCS's top defensive units. UC Davis earned seven preseason All-Big Sky selections, highlighting the program's depth and talent across multiple position groups. Head coach Dan Hawkins has established the Aggies as consistent championship contenders through superior recruiting and player development.

Davis faces a challenging championship path through the loaded Big Sky Conference, where they'll compete against defending champion Montana State and perennial contenders Montana and Idaho. Their early-season performance will be crucial for establishing championship credentials and building playoff resume strength throughout conference play.

8. Tarleton State Texans (0-0)

The Texans continue their remarkable rise through the FCS ranks with championship aspirations in just their fourth season of Division I eligibility. Quarterback Victor Gabalis returns to lead an offense that scored 30+ points in 10 games during their breakthrough 2024 campaign. Defensively, Tarleton returns 11 of their top 12 tacklers, led by defensive lineman Brandon Tolvert and safety Blake Smith who provide championship-level talent and experience.

Head coach Todd Whitten has rapidly established Tarleton as a championship contender through aggressive recruiting and innovative schemes that maximize player talent. Their early-season test at Army provides valuable FBS experience while building playoff resume credentials. The Texans' championship trajectory continues upward with this experienced roster capable of competing for both conference titles and national championship recognition.

9. Rhode Island Rams (0-0)

The defending CAA Football co-champions enter with legitimate championship expectations after a program-record 11-3 season that included their first playoff appearance since 1985. Quarterback Devin Farrell returns to lead an offense that features All-America receiver Marquis Buchanan, who provides elite playmaking ability and veteran leadership. All-America linebacker A.J. Pena headlines a defense that ranked among the FCS's best in multiple statistical categories.

Head coach Jim Fleming has transformed Rhode Island into a championship contender through strategic recruiting and player development, with this year's roster possessing the depth and experience necessary for another deep playoff run. The CAA Football's competitive balance means every conference game will be crucial for both league standings and playoff positioning, making their championship aspirations dependent on consistent performance throughout league play.

10. Montana Grizzlies (0-0)

The Grizzlies bring championship-level tradition and talent to the 2025 season with a roster featuring multiple All-Big Sky selections including running back Eli Gillman and linebacker Peyton Wing. Montana's championship pedigree and passionate fanbase provide advantages that few FCS programs can match, while head coach Bobby Hauck's experience and strategic approach offers championship-caliber leadership. The program's rich championship history creates expectations for sustained excellence and postseason success.

Montana faces a challenging championship path through the loaded Big Sky Conference, where they'll compete against defending champion Montana State in the annual Brawl of the Wild rivalry game. Their championship credentials will be tested early and often throughout conference play, with multiple opportunities to build playoff resume strength against ranked opponents.

Playoff Contenders (Teams 11-17)

11. Sacramento State Hornets (0-0)

The Hornets begin the Brennan Marion era with championship aspirations built around one of the FCS's most impressive transfer portal hauls. Marion, Sacramento State's first Black head coach, brings his innovative "Go-Go" offense after successful coordinator stints at UNLV where he helped the Rebels achieve unprecedented offensive success. The roster features over 50 transfers, including more than 40 from Division I programs and approximately 35 from FBS schools, headlined by quarterback Jaden Rashada from Arizona State.

Marion's recruiting coup includes FCS All-American running back Jamar Curtis from Lafayette and four-star receivers Jordan Anderson from Oregon State and Ernest Campbell from Texas A&M. This talent infusion represents the most aggressive roster overhaul in recent FCS memory, with championship expectations built around Marion's proven ability to develop explosive offenses. Their season-opening test at South Dakota State provides an immediate championship-caliber measuring stick that will determine the Hornets' legitimate title aspirations.

12. Idaho Vandals (0-0)

The Vandals return to championship contention after a successful 2024 campaign that included a playoff berth and multiple signature victories. Idaho's championship credentials include recent FBS upset victories and consistent Big Sky Conference competitiveness under head coach Jason Eck. The program's championship infrastructure and recruiting momentum position them as legitimate playoff contenders with aspirations for deeper postseason runs.

Idaho's championship path includes navigating the competitive Big Sky Conference while building playoff resume strength through non-conference scheduling. Their early-season performance will be crucial for establishing championship credentials and positioning for both conference titles and national playoff seeding.

13. Villanova Wildcats (0-0)

The Wildcats enter their final CAA Football season before joining the Patriot League with championship aspirations built around a veteran roster. All-America linebacker Shane Hartzell leads a defense that allowed just 18.6 points per game during their 11-4 playoff campaign. The offense features experienced running backs David Avit and Isaiah Ragland operating behind an offensive line that includes All-America selection Jake Picard.

Head coach Mark Ferrante has established Villanova as a consistent championship contender through strategic recruiting and player development, with four playoff appearances in six seasons demonstrating sustained excellence. Their championship window remains open with this experienced roster capable of competing for both CAA Football titles and deep playoff runs in their conference finale season.

14. Lehigh Mountain Hawks (0-0)

The defending Patriot League champions bring championship momentum into their season opener against Richmond, seeking to build upon last year's breakthrough playoff success. The Mountain Hawks' championship credentials were established through their stunning first-round playoff victory over Richmond, erasing a 16-7 fourth-quarter deficit with explosive touchdown runs of 65 and 54 yards. Running backs Jaden Green and Luke Yoder return to anchor a rushing attack that ranked 12th in the FCS at 201.8 yards per game.

Defensive end Matt Spatny, the Patriot League's preseason defensive player of the year, provides championship-level pass rush that can disrupt opposing offenses. Head coach Tom Gilmore has built sustainable championship expectations through superior player development and strategic recruiting, with this year's roster possessing the experience and talent necessary for another deep playoff run. Their championship aspirations begin immediately with Saturday's marquee matchup against Richmond in a rematch of last year's playoff thriller.

15. Abilene Christian Wildcats (0-0)

The Wildcats continue building championship credentials in their ongoing transition to full FCS eligibility, with a roster featuring the talent and coaching necessary for sustained postseason success. Head coach Keith Patterson has established ACU as a rising championship contender through strategic recruiting and innovative schemes that maximize player talent. The program's championship trajectory points upward with increasing competitiveness against established FCS powers.

Abilene Christian's championship aspirations depend on continued program development and strategic roster building through recruiting and transfer portal acquisitions. Their early-season performance will provide insight into the program's readiness to compete for both conference titles and playoff positioning in an increasingly competitive FCS landscape.

16. Jackson State Tigers (0-0)

The Tigers enter with championship expectations after a dominant 12-2 season that culminated in a Celebration Bowl victory. Quarterback JaCobian Morgan returns to lead an offense that averaged 36.4 points per game, while All-SWAC receiver Joanes Fortilien provides elite playmaking ability alongside newcomer Nate Rembert. Defensively, linebacker Reid Pulliam and defensive tackle Jeremiah Williams anchor a unit that allowed just 17.1 points per game.

Head coach T.C. Taylor has established Jackson State as the SWAC's championship standard through superior recruiting and player development. Their championship credentials include a perfect conference record and dominant postseason performance, with this year's roster possessing the talent necessary for another conference title and potential FCS playoff berth. The Tigers' championship window remains wide open with sustained excellence across multiple seasons.

17. Northern Arizona Lumberjacks (0-0)

The Lumberjacks bring championship-level experience and talent to the Big Sky Conference after a successful 2024 campaign that included playoff participation. NAU's championship infrastructure includes strong coaching continuity and recruiting momentum that positions them as legitimate playoff contenders. The program's recent FBS upset victory over Arizona demonstrates their capability to compete against higher-level competition.

Northern Arizona's championship path includes navigating the competitive Big Sky Conference while building playoff resume strength through strategic non-conference scheduling. Their championship aspirations depend on consistent performance throughout conference play and capitalizing on opportunities against ranked opponents.

Final Top 25 Spots (Teams 18-25)

18. Monmouth Hawks (0-0)

The Hawks enter with championship aspirations built around one of the FCS's most explosive offenses, averaging 489.9 yards and 39.0 points per game in 2024. All-America quarterback Derek Robertson returns to lead an attack that includes proven receivers Josh Derry and TJ Speight alongside running back Rodney Nelson. Robertson's selection as CAA Offensive Player of the Year highlights his elite playmaking ability and championship-level talent.

Safety Deuce Lee anchors a defense that must improve to support the Hawks' championship aspirations. Head coach Kevin Callahan has established Monmouth as a consistent championship contender through innovative offensive schemes and strategic recruiting. Their championship window depends on defensive improvement and maintaining offensive consistency throughout CAA Football play, where every game will be crucial for both conference positioning and playoff credentials.

19. Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles (0-0)

The Golden Eagles transition to the Southern Conference with championship aspirations built around a roster featuring consistent competitiveness and coaching stability. Tennessee Tech's championship credentials include sustained success at the Ohio Valley Conference level, with this year marking their opportunity to establish themselves in new conference surroundings. The program's championship infrastructure positions them as potential playoff contenders with proper development and strategic recruiting.

Head coach Dewayne Alexander has built championship-level expectations through consistent program development and player cultivation. Their championship aspirations begin with establishing Southern Conference competitiveness while building playoff resume strength through both conference and non-conference performance.

20. Austin Peay Governors (0-0) 

The Governors bring championship momentum after exceeding expectations in 2024, with a roster featuring improved talent and coaching continuity under head coach Scotty Walden. Austin Peay's championship trajectory points upward through strategic recruiting and player development that has enhanced competitiveness against established FCS programs. The program's championship aspirations depend on continued improvement and building sustainable success.

Their championship path includes navigating competitive conference play while establishing consistent performance standards that attract quality recruiting and transfer portal additions. Austin Peay's championship window continues expanding with proper program development and strategic resource allocation.

21. Youngstown State Penguins (0-0)

The Penguins enter with championship tradition and renewed optimism under head coach Doug Phillips, who brings championship-level experience and strategic vision to a program with rich postseason history. Youngstown State's championship credentials include multiple national titles and consistent playoff appearances, with this year's roster featuring the talent necessary to return to championship contention. The program's championship infrastructure provides advantages in recruiting and player development.

YSU's championship aspirations depend on maximizing roster talent while building consistent performance throughout Missouri Valley Football Conference play. Their championship window requires strategic development and capitalizing on the program's rich tradition to attract championship-caliber talent and coaching.timesrepublican

22. Southern Illinois Salukis (0-0)

The Salukis bring championship aspirations to the Missouri Valley Football Conference with a roster featuring improved talent and coaching stability under head coach Nick Hill. Southern Illinois's championship credentials include recent competitive improvements and strategic recruiting that has enhanced program competitiveness. The Salukis' championship infrastructure continues developing through sustained investment and proper resource allocation.

Their championship path includes navigating the brutal MVFC schedule while building playoff resume credentials against ranked opponents. Southern Illinois's championship window depends on continued program development and maximizing roster talent through superior coaching and player development initiatives.

23. Stony Brook Seawolves (0-0)

The Seawolves bring championship momentum after posting FCS football's biggest turnaround with an 8-4 record in 2024. All-America running back Roland Dempster returns after ranking among the top six nationally in both rushing yards and touchdowns, providing elite playmaking ability that can control championship-level games. Linebackers AJ Roberts and Anthony Ferrelli anchor a defense that featured consistent improvement throughout last season.

Head coach Chuck Priore has established Stony Brook as a rising championship contender through strategic recruiting and player development that maximized roster potential. Their championship aspirations depend on continued improvement and building sustainable success within the competitive CAA Football landscape, where every conference game will be crucial for both league positioning and playoff credentials.

24. New Hampshire Wildcats (0-0)

The Wildcats return with championship aspirations after an 8-5 season that included playoff participation and competitive performance against ranked opponents. New Hampshire features returning talent in receiver Caleb Burke and safety Duncan Moreland, providing veteran leadership and playmaking ability. The program's championship infrastructure includes strong coaching continuity and recruiting momentum.

Head coach Ricky Santos has established UNH as a consistent championship contender through strategic player development and competitive scheduling. Their championship window depends on maximizing roster talent while building consistent performance throughout CAA Football play, where they'll face multiple ranked opponents and championship-caliber competition.

25. Richmond Spiders (0-0)

The defending CAA Football champions enter their inaugural Patriot League season with championship expectations built around a veteran roster and proven coaching leadership. Quarterback Carter Wickersham returns with a 69.4% career completion percentage, leading an offense that features strong depth and playmaking ability. Linebacker Carter Glassmyer provides defensive leadership and championship-level talent.

Head coach Russ Huesman has established Richmond as a championship program through superior recruiting and player development, with last year's conference title demonstrating sustained excellence. Their championship aspirations face an immediate test at Lehigh in a rematch of last year's playoff thriller, where they'll need to prove their championship credentials can translate to new conference surroundings. The Spiders' championship window remains open with this experienced roster capable of competing for both Patriot League titles and deep playoff runs.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 FCS season opens with unprecedented depth and championship-caliber competition across multiple conferences. The Missouri Valley Football Conference and Big Sky Conference lead the way with 11 combined ranked teams, while the CAA Football features four top-25 programs in its final season with current membership. Week 1's 87 games will begin separating legitimate championship contenders from preseason pretenders, with 47 FCS-vs-FBS matchups providing valuable measuring sticks for playoff positioning.

Conference realignment continues reshaping the FCS landscape, with Richmond joining the Patriot League and Tennessee Tech moving to the Southern Conference among other significant changes. The expanded 12-game regular season provides additional opportunities for resume building, while the competitive balance throughout the subdivision ensures that championship aspirations remain achievable for programs willing to invest in proper development and recruiting.

Saturday's marquee matchups between Richmond-Lehigh and Sacramento State-South Dakota State will provide early championship-caliber tests that could define playoff trajectories. As defending champion North Dakota State begins its title defense and Montana State seeks redemption after last year's championship game heartbreak, the 2025 season promises championship-level drama from opening weekend through the January title game in Nashville.