Description

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