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The FCS Edge
Opta Analyst
62 episodes
1 day ago
Get the edge on everything FCS football with The FCS Edge. Join expert national FCS writers Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell each week as they break down the biggest stories, standout performances and rising programs from across FCS college football. From in-depth analysis of the Top 25 to game-changing matchups and players making noise, The FCS Edge gives you the insight and perspective you won’t find anywhere else. Subscribe now so you never miss an episode — and be sure to visit https://theanalyst.com/competition/fcs-football/articles for even more coverage and data-driven stories from the world of FCS college football.
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All content for The FCS Edge is the property of Opta Analyst and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Get the edge on everything FCS football with The FCS Edge. Join expert national FCS writers Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell each week as they break down the biggest stories, standout performances and rising programs from across FCS college football. From in-depth analysis of the Top 25 to game-changing matchups and players making noise, The FCS Edge gives you the insight and perspective you won’t find anywhere else. Subscribe now so you never miss an episode — and be sure to visit https://theanalyst.com/competition/fcs-football/articles for even more coverage and data-driven stories from the world of FCS college football.
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Episodes (20/62)
The FCS Edge
FCS Playoffs Interview
With Selection Sunday fast approaching, The FCS Edge has gone right to the source. In episode 13, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell welcome in special guests Mark Wharton, the chair of the FCS playoff selection committee, and Ty Halpin of the NCAA for an informative conservation on how the 24-team field is being built. Also, Craig and Zach preview and predict key games, pondering if the Week 11 schedule will be as chaotic as last weekend’s results. Here's some of the highlights from our FCS Playoffs Interview episode Week 10 was chaotic with many upsets. Seeding from 1 to 16 added complexity to playoff selections. Metrics are secondary; the eye test is crucial. Injuries significantly impact team evaluations. The Ivy League's automatic bid changes the selection landscape. The selection committee faces challenges with tight bubbles. Upcoming matchups could shift playoff dynamics. Nashville championship week promises to be unique. The committee's process is thorough and collaborative. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get The FCS Edge delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Here are the timestamps to jump to your favorite bits of the show 00:00 - Welcome and Week 10 Chaos 03:12 - Analyzing Week 10 Upsets 05:56 - Field of 24: Playoff Scenarios 09:07 - Eddie Robinson Award and Coaching Picks 12:01 - FCS Awards Predictions 15:07 - Week 11 Game Previews 18:08 - Mark Wharton and Ty Halpin Join the Show 41:54 - Key Matchups and Predictions 44:14 - Missouri Valley Conference Showdown 47:17 - CAA and Southland Conference Insights 50:18 - MEAC and Delaware State's Rise 53:21 - Closing Thoughts
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19 hours ago
56 minutes 27 seconds

The FCS Edge
Jerry Rice Joins The Show
Even the Bison – OK, Bizon! – want to be the GOAT. On episode 12 of The FCS Edge, living legend Jerry Rice – the GOAT – joins co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell for a lively conservation on his FCS roots and national freshman player of the year award. Here's some of the highlights from our chat with Jerry Rice Jerry acknowledges the greatness of his peers in the NFL. He believes in the power of hard work over natural talent. Jerry sees himself as a part of a legacy of great players. The influence of players like Jim Brown and Walter Payton is significant to him. He values teamwork and collaboration in achieving success. He reflects on the importance of dedication in sports. Jerry's mindset is focused on continuous improvement. Craig and Zach also talk fallout from the NDSU vs. SDSU showdown, and preview and predict key games as the FCS schedule moves into the November stretch run. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get The FCS Edge delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Here are the timestamps to jump to your favorite bits of the show 00:00 - Introduction and Game Recap 01:17 - Analysis of North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State 05:43 - The Impact of Injuries on South Dakota State 07:10 - Tarleton State's Rise in Rankings 10:42 - Celebration Bowl Race Dynamics 13:33 - Conference Races to Watch 19:22 - Eddie Robinson Award Candidates 22:37 - Jerry Rice Joins The Show 37:53 - Pick'em Segment: Key Matchups 52:29 - Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Games
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1 week ago
54 minutes 51 seconds

The FCS Edge
The Dakota Marker Show
The 2025 FCS season’s biggest regular-season showdown is here – No. 1 North Dakota State vs. No. 2 South Dakota State, the Dakota Marker Game – and The FCS Edge is all over it in episode 11. Co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell break down the keys to the game and the significance of the matchup before making their predictions. And like all Montana fans, they’re boarding the Panda Express in anticipation of one of the week’s other big games. Here's some of the highlights from The Dakota Marker Show Southeastern Louisiana and Western Carolina are notable teams outside the Top 25. North Dakota has emerged as a strong contender this season. Time of possession is crucial in the North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State game. Montana is expected to perform well against Sacramento State. Illinois State vs. South Dakota is a critical Missouri Valley Football Conference game. The hosts emphasize the excitement of late-season FCS football. The dynamic of conference play adds intensity to the games. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get The FCS Edge delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Here are the timestamps to jump to your favourite bits of the show 00:00 - Introduction to FCS Edge and Key Matchups 02:23 - Analysis of the FCS Top 25 Poll 05:37 - Surprising Teams in the Top 10 08:35 - Previewing North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State 11:36 - Game Strategies for North Dakota State 14:32 - Game Strategies for South Dakota State 17:24 - Impact of the Game on Rankings 20:43 - Jerry Rice Award Watch List Discussion 23:17 - Pick'em Segment: Key Games of the Week
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2 weeks ago
36 minutes 25 seconds

The FCS Edge
T.C. Taylor Joins the Show
Have you caught your breath yet from Jackson State’s thrilling win over Alabama State? On The FCS Edge, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell are still trying, like many of us, so in episode 10, they brought in the right person to put it in perspective – Tigers head coach T.C. Taylor, who joins as a special guest. Here are the highlights from our chat with T.C. Taylor The recent win against Alabama State was a thrilling experience for the Tigers. Quarterback JaCobian Morgan has shown significant improvement and consistency. Quincy Ivory's versatility is a key asset to the defense. Recruitment strategies have shifted toward high school talent. The offensive line has performed exceptionally well this season. The coaches are torn between the Celebration Bowl and FCS playoffs. Emotional moments on the field drive team spirit and resilience. Coach Taylor emphasizes the importance of player development. The coaching staff has adapted to changes while maintaining success. The team is focused on building a strong culture and identity. Cut Craig and Zach some slack, though, because the big games and storylines are flying around FCS nation, and they’re on top of them, including with predictions of key Week 8 games. Here are the timestamps to jump to your favourite bits of the show 00:00 - FCS Buzzwords: Upsets, Chaos and Bubble Teams 01:15 - Top 25 Teams: Strength and Losses 03:00 - Show Me Week: Expectations and Performance 06:22 - Cole Payton: The Offensive Star 08:49 - Dakota Marker Game: South Dakota State vs. North Dakota State 12:35 - Show Me Week: Lindenwood vs. Tennessee Tech 15:21 - Presbyterian: A First-Time Playoff Qualifier? 17:03 - Harvard: The Ivy League Contender 20:34 - Jackson State: Coach TC Taylor's Success 23:58 - T.C. Taylor Joins The Show 42.32 - Pick 'Ems Segment With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get The FCS Edge delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram.
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3 weeks ago
56 minutes 12 seconds

The FCS Edge
Jared Allen Joins The Show
There have been special guests on The FCS Edge this season, but in episode 9, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell welcome in perhaps the greatest Buck Buchanan Award recipient, Jared Allen. The 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee reflects on his playing career, compares the FCS between then and now, and, of course, shares his love of the sport of curling. Here are the highlights from our interview of Pro Football Hall of Famer Jared Allen Jared Allen emphasizes the importance of tradition in FCS football. The disparity in scholarships between FCS and FBS schools affects player recruitment. Player transfers have changed the landscape of college football significantly. Building loyalty and teamwork is crucial for success in college football. FCS programs can still thrive and build competitive teams. The transition from college to NFL requires a focus on fundamentals. The Hall of Fame experience is about reflection and camaraderie with fellow players. Edge rushers have a rich history in the NFL, with many legends to consider. Pass rushing is an art form that requires skill and technique. Jared Allen's curling aspirations highlight his diverse interests beyond football. As usual, Craig and Zach are up to their shenanigans, detailing the big performances and matchups across FCS nation before they predict key games this week. Here are takeaways discussed elsewhere in the show: The playoff bubble is tighter than ever this year. Montana State's defense is a key strength this season. South Dakota State showed resilience in tough games. Conference structures impact team performance and scheduling. Western Carolina's Taron Dickens set a new record with 46 straight completions. Abilene Christian is better than its record suggests. Villanova has potential to rise in rankings. UC Davis and Youngstown State are teams to watch. The FCS playoff selection committee will have tough decisions. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get The FCS Edge delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Chapters (to jump to the bits you want to hear) 00:00 - Midseason Reflections and Playoff Races 01:08 - Montana State's Dominance and Defensive Strength 03:00 - Top Teams Tested: North Dakota State and South Dakota State 06:12 - Poll Rankings and Bubble Conversations 09:30 - Conference Structure and Scheduling Challenges 12:04 - Taron Dickens' Record-Setting Performance 14:29 - Playoff Implications and Bubble Teams 15:07 - Teams to Watch: Abilene Christian and Villanova 17:22 - Potential Downfalls for High-Performing Teams 19:37 - In-Season Rankings and Selection Committee Insights 23:48 - Jared Allen Joins the Show 46:54 - Week 7 Pick'Ems Segment
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4 weeks ago
58 minutes 39 seconds

The FCS Edge
FCS Fast Starts
Catch them if you can. In The FCS Edge, episode 8, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell are exploring who’s sprinted out of the starting block of the 2025 season, from the Montana Grizzlies to the key MVFC powers with big matchups this week to players out in front of the Walter Payton and Buck Buchanan award conversations. There aren’t many teams that have had a faster start than Tennessee Tech. Coach Bobby Wilder joins the show as a special guest to break down the undefeated Golden Eagles. Here’s a rundown of the key talking points from our "‘FCS Fast Starts" interview with Coach Wilder: The team's fast start is motivated by last season's near miss of an FCS playoff bid. A strong culture of hard work is embodied in the phrase "grab a shovel, jump in the ditch and dig." All 29 transfers have contributed positively to the team's performance. The transfer portal operates at warp speed, requiring advanced scouting. Effort and attention to detail are crucial for building a winning culture. The team has a veteran presence that aids in maintaining focus on the process of winning. The team is built to compete for the OVC-Big South title and potentially make a postseason run Tennessee Tech is moving to the Southern Conference for better geographical alignment. Travel logistics for student-athletes will improve significantly in the new conference. Craig and Zach also look ahead to Week 6 with the pick 'ems segment expanding out to 10 games, with colleges across the FCS nation hoping to maintain their fast starts or even start to get out of the blocks. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get The FCS Edge delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Chapters in "FCS Fast Starts" 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of FCS Landscape 03:10 - Fast Starts and Key Matchups 06:05 - Ranking Controversies and Team Performances 09:04 - Individual Player Highlights and Awards Discussion 11:56 - Walter Payton Award Candidates 14:45 - Buck Buchanan Award Candidates 19:17 - Tennessee Tech Coach Bobby Wilder Joins the Show 39:29 - Pick'em Segment: Week 6 Predictions 42:22 - Key Matchups and Implications 45:14 - Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
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1 month ago
51 minutes 28 seconds

The FCS Edge
FCS Conference Kickoff
The FCS football schedule is shifting more into conference matchups, and, oh, is it about to get more heated (and downright wacky). In The FCS Edge, episode 7, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell break down the best teams and races. NFL teams aren’t just looking at the key games, they’re looking at the best FCS prospects in the leadup to the 2026 NFL Draft. Craig and Zach are here to pinpoint them as well.  Here’s a rundown of the key talking points from our ‘FCS Conference Kickoff’ episode: Conference play is finally here, ramping up excitement across the country. Monmouth's impressive win over Villanova has elevated the Hawks in the Top 25 poll. Southern Illinois is a dark horse to watch in the national championship race. The SoCon race is shaping up to be chaotic this season. Presbyterian's surprising performance has caught attention beyond the Pioneer League. NDSU's Cole Payton is emerging as a top quarterback prospect this season. NDSU wide receiver Bryce Lance is considered the top NFL prospect from the FCS level. The Ivy League is showing competitive balance with multiple teams in contention. The hosts emphasize the importance of conference matchups in determining playoff contenders. As you would expect with conference kickoffs, our pick 'ems segment could end up giving you the edge in what to look out for on Saturday. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get The FCS Edge delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Chapters in "FCS Conference Kickoff" 00:00 - Kickoff to Conference Play 02:56 - Top 25 Poll Insights 06:14 - Dark Horses in the Championship Race 08:54 - Conference Races Heating Up 12:10 - Ivy League Surprises 15:00 - Potential Runaway Winners 17:31 - FCS NFL Draft Prospects 20:17 - Quarterback Prospects to Watch 24:18 - Evaluating NFL Draft Prospects From FCS 32:12 - Key Matchups and Predictions for Upcoming Games
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1 month ago
45 minutes 8 seconds

The FCS Edge
FCS Stock Report
There’s enough early season data for The FCS Edge co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell to pinpoint where teams stand. Mostly, that is as some teams remain a puzzle in our "FCS Stock Report." But in episode 6, Craig and Zach look across FCS nation to help identify the contenders and the pretenders. Monmouth is one of the impressive teams. Hawks coach Kevin Callahan joins the show as a special guest to discuss being the FCS’ longest-tenured and winningest active coach, and to give insight on national passing leader Derek Robertson. Here's what you can look forward to in "FCS Stock Report" Monmouth football has evolved significantly since its inception. Adapting to changes in college football is crucial for success. The importance of conference races can't be overstated in FCS football. Freshmen play a vital role in many FCS programs' success, including at Monmouth. The FCS community is built around local rivalries and conference pride. Coaches must be upfront and honest with players about the transfer portal. The Ivy League race is competitive and often overlooked. Upcoming games will provide more data points for evaluating teams. As ever, Craig and Zach end the latest episode with their pick 'ems segment, as ranked-vs.-ranked matchups and historic games get the treatment. It's an episode you can ill-afford to miss. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get “The FCS Edge” delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Chapters in "FCS Stock Report" 00:00 - Introduction to FCS Edge Podcast 03:07 - Week 3 Recap: Montana vs. North Dakota 05:52 - Top 25 Rankings and Surprises 09:17 - Taking Stock of the Season To Date 12:02 - Standout Teams and Underachievers 15:07 - Conference Depth and Rankings 17:53 - The Importance of Conference Races 23:19 - Coach Kevin Callahan Joins the Show 39:05 - Pick'em Segment: Key Matchups 50:01 - Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead
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1 month ago
51 minutes 12 seconds

The FCS Edge
Assessing the Start to FCS Season
Some teams look like they’re in midseason form, others are trying to resist hitting the panic button. In “The FCS Edge,” episode 5, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell are assessing the way different teams have made a start to the FCS season. One team that only knows success to date is UTRGV. Coach Travis Bush joins the show as a special guest to discuss the Vaqueros’ fast start and the buildup to their program’s inaugural season. Here's the key takeaways from our chat with UTRGV Head Coach Travis Bush: A coaching philosophy that focuses on developing young men, not just winning games. Recruiting in Texas is crucial for building a successful program. Getting facilities in place from the start a key part of the early success. Areas of improvement have been highlighted ahead of conference play. Elsewhere in the show, Craig and Zach look forward to the Week 3 schedule, with their ever-popular Pick 'Ems segment. With Zach turning himself into somewhat of a road warrior, The FCS Edge certainly has it all this episode. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get “The FCS Edge” delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to FCS Football Highlights 00:57 - South Dakota State vs. Montana State Showdown 05:41 - Top 25 and Who Shouldn't Press The Panic Button 08:53 - The Impact of the 12-Game Schedule 13:38 - Ivy League's Playoff Prospects 17:18 - UTRGV Head Coach Travis Bush Joins The Show 31:59 - Week 3 Pick 'Ems 43:42 - Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
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1 month ago
46 minutes 7 seconds

The FCS Edge
Breaking Down the FCS Top 25 Rankings Rumblings
Whether it’s the good, bad or ugly, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell are all over the Top 25 rankings rumblings in “The FCS Edge,” episode 4. That No. 2 South Dakota State and No. 3 Montana State are meeting in a playoff-like showdown is a highlight, but the breakdown goes much deeper this week. Who’s too high and who’s too low? Also, CAA Football commissioner Joe D’Antonio joins the show as a special guest to discuss the conference and its many changes. Here's what you can look forward to "The FCS Edge," episode 4: Tarleton State has emerged as a standout team early in the season. The importance of maintaining a balanced conference schedule is crucial. CAA expansion discussions are ongoing, focusing on adding competitive programs. The FloSports deal has positively impacted the CAA's visibility and finances. FCS football is evolving with the influence of NIL and scholarship changes. The CAA playoff race is more challenging due to increased competition in the conference. Key matchups this week could significantly impact playoff standings. The hosts weigh the importance of on-field results versus projections in the rankings. From Top 25 rankings rumblings to CAA expansion talks and playoff implications, Episode 4 of The FCS Edge has it all — don’t miss Craig Haley, Zach McKinnell and special guest Joe D’Antonio breaking it all down. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get “The FCS Edge” delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Timestamps 00:00 Week One Recap and Impressive Performances 03:53 Top 25 Rankings Rumblings 08:49 Conference Dynamics and Team Projections 12:08 Who Needs to Take a Step Forward in Week 2? 16:08 Week 1 National Awards 16:43 Commissioner Joe D'Antonio Joins the Show 36:51 Week 2 Pick'ems
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2 months ago
51 minutes 33 seconds

The FCS Edge
Can the FCS Shock the FBS in Week 1?
They filled up pretty well on the appetizers when the 2025 FCS football season kicked off last weekend. But in “The FCS Edge,” episode 3, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell go all in with the full course of Week 1 action. The schedule of games is delicious, including potential FCS vs. FBS upsets. Plus, Stan Becton from NCAA.com visits as a special guest to continue our preview and predictions for the entire season ahead. Here's what you can look forward to "The FCS Edge," episode 3: Week 0 provided insights into under-the-radar players and teams. Potential dark horse teams include Southern Illinois and Illinois State. FCS-vs.-FBS matchups are crucial for gaining national attention. North Carolina Central's offensive line showed great potential in its last game. Tarleton State's shutout win sets it up for a strong matchup against Army. The Walter Payton Award candidates include quarterbacks Aidan Bouman (South Dakota) and Derek Robertson (Monmouth). Lehigh aims to make a statement against Richmond in the season's first Patriot League game. Sacramento State's new go-go offense will be tested against South Dakota State's defense. The SWAC has a chance to end a long FBS losing streak this season. Week 1 is here — FCS upsets, dark horses and bold predictions are on deck. This is the episode you can’t miss. With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get “The FCS Edge” delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Under-the-Radar Players in Week 0 02:10 Week 0 Review 10:38 NDSU Season Gets Underway 11:14 FCS-vs-FBS Picks 17:56 Stan Becton Joins The Show 19:14 Playoff Dark Horses 20:16 Key HBCU Storylines 26:37 Walter Payton Picks 27:44 Buck Buchanan Picks 30:22 Week 1 Pick 'Ems.
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2 months ago
47 minutes 34 seconds

The FCS Edge
NDSU Football Coach Tim Polasek Joins The FCS Edge
No build-up is necessary, “The FCS Edge” has gone straight to the top at the start of the 2025 college football season. Coach Tim Polasek of reigning national champion North Dakota State joins co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell as a guest in episode 2 to discuss the Bison and the season ahead, including: North Dakota State is focused on continuous improvement this season. Managing expectations is crucial for the team's success. The secondary has shown significant development and strength. Cole Payton is an explosive athlete with potential as a quarterback. Barika Kpeenu is expected to be a key player in the running back group. Maintaining tradition while innovating is essential for the program. The defensive line has depth and potential for a strong season. Tim Polasek values his community and the lessons learned from his past. Coaching is about building trust and relationships with players. The journey of coaching is fulfilling and driven by passion. In addition, Craig and Zach span FCS nation with previews and predictions for both Week 0 and the entire season . With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get “The FCS Edge” delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to The Analyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. “The FCS Edge” is produced by Graham Bell.  Time Stamps 00:00 Kickoff to the 2025 FCS Season 03:32 Analysing Championship Contender 06:42 HBCU and Celebration Bowl Insights 13:28 Opta Supercomputer Projections 18:32 Introduction to Head Coach Tim Polasek 21:19 Managing Expectations and Pressure 24:12 Strengthening the Secondary 27:18 Quarterback Dynamics and Offensive Strategy 30:00 Running Back Development and Depth 31:14 Balancing Tradition and Innovation 34:03 Defensive Line Insights 37:50 Tim Polasek's Journey and Values  41:37 Week 0 Preview
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2 months ago
54 minutes 31 seconds

The FCS Edge
Navigating the FCS Landscape
Get the popcorn ready, it’s the 2025 season debut of “The FCS Edge” podcast. The new season brings a new podcast name, as co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell take you inside the Division I subdivision with their bold takes. In “The FCS Edge,” episode 1, they’ll review the Top 25 poll, make conference title predictions and analyze preseason watchlists. OK, make that two buckets of popcorn as they cover: Why North Dakota State remains a contender despite recent losses How the competitive FCS landscape is creating new emerging powers Montana State's solid foundation and returning talent for 2025 UIW's potential - and the tough matchups they must survive The challenges South Dakota faces under a new coaching staff Dark horse playoff teams to watch The competitive Ivy League, with Harvard as a strong contender Conference predictions - and why outcomes could surprise Key players on preseason watchlists With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get "The FCS Edge" delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to TheAnalyst. And follow us across social media on X, Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to FCS Edge Podcast 02:48 North Dakota State's Dominance and Challenges 05:50 The Health of FCS and Emerging Contenders 08:47 Analyzing the Top Five Teams 11:37 Coaching Changes and Their Impact 14:54 Underrated Teams and Dark Horses 17:47 Looking Ahead to Conference Championships 22:17 Our Conference Picks and Predictions 22:46 Ivy League Championship Predictions 24:22 Conference Champion Predictions and Analysis 25:47 SoCon Championship Discussion 29:30 Northeast Conference Insights 31:23 Pioneer Football League Predictions 33:13 Big Sky Conference Playoff Potential 36:26 Walter Payton and Buck Buchanan Award Watchlists 46:00 Closing Thoughts
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2 months ago
46 minutes 53 seconds

The FCS Edge
S2 E23: A Bow on the Season
It’s the wrap-up edition of the 2024 season for “FCS Delivered,” episode 23, after the Division I subdivision saved a lot of the best for last. Co-hosts Craig Haley and Gary Reasons break down North Dakota State’s thrilling win over Montana State in the national championship game, the FCS National Awards Banquet and the fun season overall.  Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts to never miss the informative and entertaining “FCS Delivered. You can also watch the podcast on our YouTube channel, where you will also find plenty of content from this season's "FCS National Awards on Campus" visits, as well as the chance to watch the 2024 FCS National Awards Show. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to TheAnalyst. And why not follow us across social media on X, Facebook and Instagram. "FCS Delivered," episode 23 was produced by Seth Biley and Graham Bell. 
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10 months ago
26 minutes 9 seconds

The FCS Edge
S2 E22: Championship Week
If it feels like the 2024 FCS season has flown by too quickly, take comfort in knowing a lot of the best is saved for last. In “FCS Delivered,” episode 22, Craig Haley and Gary Reasons break down the much-anticipated national championship matchup between Montana State and North Dakota State. The two finalists also have representatives at the FCS National Awards Banquet. Our co-hosts preview a night when all the FCS stars come out to shine. Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts to never miss the informative and entertaining “FCS Delivered. You can also watch the podcast on our YouTube channel, where you will also find plenty of content from this season's "FCS National Awards on Campus" visits. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to TheAnalyst. And why not follow us across social media on X, Facebook and Instagram. "FCS Delivered," episode 22 was produced by Seth Biley and Graham Bell. 
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10 months ago
23 minutes 53 seconds

The FCS Edge
S2 E21: Final Four
In “FCS Delivered,” episode 21, Craig Haley and Gary Reasons have to flex muscle to keep up with the FCS playoff semifinalists. Yes, the power teams have advanced to this week’s final four, and our co-hosts are breaking down how they did it, and what are their keys for advancing to the national championship game. Nashville had its FCS holiday wish list filled recently. What are Craig and Gary wishing for the FCS?  Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts to never miss the informative and entertaining “FCS Delivered. You can also watch the podcast on our YouTube channel, where you will also find plenty of content from this season's "FCS National Awards on Campus" visits. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to TheAnalyst. And why not follow us across social media on X, Facebook and Instagram. "FCS Delivered," episode 21 was produced by Seth Biley and Graham Bell. 
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10 months ago
26 minutes 13 seconds

The FCS Edge
S2 E20: Best of the Best
That the FCS postseason is basically going as expected makes sense given who’s been best all season. In “FCS Delivered,” episode 20, co-hosts Craig Haley and Gary Reasons break down how the eight highest seeds have advanced to the national quarterfinals, and how the Celebration Bowl is a matchup of the most-deserving qualifiers. In addition, watch and listen when North Carolina Central’s Juan Velarde learns he is the 2024 recipient of the FedEx Doris Robinson Scholar-Athlete Award.  Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts to never miss the informative and entertaining “FCS Delivered." You can also watch the podcast on our YouTube channel, where you will also find plenty of content from this season's "FCS National Awards on Campus" visits. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to TheAnalyst. And why not follow us across social media on X, Facebook and Instagram. "FCS Delivered," episode 20 was produced by Seth Biley and Graham Bell. 
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11 months ago
27 minutes 13 seconds

The FCS Edge
S2 E19: Postseason, Awards Season
There’s so much going on across FCS college football, and co-hosts Craig Haley and Gary Reasons are all over it in “FCS Delivered,” episode 19. They’re reacting to the fast start to the playoffs and making predictions of the second-round games. In addition, Craig and Gary unveil who they selected to win the FCS national legacy awards. Fingers crossed for all the finalists. Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts to never miss the informative and entertaining “FCS Delivered." You can also watch the podcast on our YouTube channel, where you will also find plenty of content from this season's "FCS National Awards on Campus" visits. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to TheAnalyst. And why not follow us across social media on X, Facebook and Instagram. "FCS Delivered," episode 19 was produced by Seth Biley and Graham Bell. 
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11 months ago
25 minutes 46 seconds

The FCS Edge
S2 E18: Second Season
The FCS playoffs are even better than the turkey this week (maybe not the side dishes, however). On “FCS Delivered,” episode 18, co-hosts Craig Haley and Gary Reasons are all over the second season, reacting to the playoff field and predicting the first-round games. With Illinois State, Gary is going back for seconds. He visits with the playoff qualifier as part of “FCS National Awards on Campus.” The FCS National Team of the Week has been one of the more resilient teams in the nation. Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts to never miss the informative and entertaining “FCS Delivered." You can also watch the podcast on our YouTube channel, where you will also find plenty of content from the "FCS National Awards on Campus" visit to Normal, Illinois, including interviews with the players and head coach Brock Spack. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to TheAnalyst. And why not follow us across social media on X, Facebook and Instagram. "FCS Delivered," episode 18 was produced by Seth Biley and Graham Bell. The on-campus videographer was Nick Reasons. A big thanks to Illinois State for the use of their game footage.
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11 months ago
25 minutes 4 seconds

The FCS Edge
S2 E17: Who’s Getting In
It’s an all-out sprint in the final full week of the FCS regular season. In “FCS Delivered,” episode 17, co-hosts Craig Haley and Gary Reasons explore the races that still offer available spots for the postseason, including some that are doubling up fun with rivalry games. The Abilene Christian Wildcats are already qualified for the FCS playoffs. Gary visits with the national team of the week as part of “FCS National Awards on Campus.” Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts to never miss the informative and entertaining “FCS Delivered." You can also watch the podcast on our YouTube channel, where you will also find plenty of content from the "FCS National Awards on Campus" visit to Abilene, Texas, including interviews with the players and head coach Keith Patterson. For all the latest FCS Football news, head over to TheAnalyst. And why not follow us across social media on X, Facebook and Instagram. "FCS Delivered," episode 17 was produced by Seth Biley and Graham Bell. The on-campus videographer was Nick Reasons. A big thanks to ACU for the use of their game footage.
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11 months ago
25 minutes 1 second

The FCS Edge
Get the edge on everything FCS football with The FCS Edge. Join expert national FCS writers Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell each week as they break down the biggest stories, standout performances and rising programs from across FCS college football. From in-depth analysis of the Top 25 to game-changing matchups and players making noise, The FCS Edge gives you the insight and perspective you won’t find anywhere else. Subscribe now so you never miss an episode — and be sure to visit https://theanalyst.com/competition/fcs-football/articles for even more coverage and data-driven stories from the world of FCS college football.