North Dakota State Earns No. 1 Seed in 2025 FCS Playoffs

The North Dakota State Bison are the top seed in the 2025 FCS playoffs. They completed a perfect 12-0 regular season. The selection committee announced the bracket on November 23.This marks the defending national champion’s return to the postseason. The Bison are riding a 16-game winning streak. They aim for their 11th national title.

Historic MVFC Presence in the Playoff Field

A record-tying six teams from the Missouri Valley Football Conference made the 24-team field. This underscores the conference’s dominance in FCS football. According to ESPN, the MVFC is considered the toughest league at this level.North Dakota State leads the group. South Dakota State, South Dakota, Northern Iowa, Illinois State, and Youngstown State also qualified. This creates potential for several conference rematches deep in the tournament.

The Road to the Championship in Nashville

The playoff path is set. First-round games begin Saturday, November 29. The top eight seeds, including NDSU, receive a first-round bye.The Bison will host a second-round game on December 6 at the Fargodome. The national championship is scheduled for January 5, 2026, at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.Home-field advantage is a significant benefit for the Bison. The Fargodome provides one of the most hostile environments for visiting teams. This is a key asset in the cold-weather playoff rounds.

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The North Dakota State Bison have established themselves as the team to beat in the FCS playoffs. Their perfect record and top seeding make them the overwhelming favorite to win another national championship.

Info at your fingertips

How many teams make the FCS playoffs?

The FCS playoff field includes 24 teams. The top eight seeds receive a bye in the first round. The tournament culminates in a single national championship game.

Who are the other top seeds?

Montana State is the No. 2 seed. Montana follows as the No. 3 seed. Tarleton State and Lehigh round out the top five seeds.

Can North Dakota State repeat as champions?

Yes, the Bison are the heavy favorite to win back-to-back titles. They have won 10 of the last 14 FCS national championships. Their current roster is considered one of their most talented.

Where is the FCS championship game?

The 2026 FCS National Championship will be held in Nashville, Tennessee. The game will be played at FirstBank Stadium. It is scheduled for Monday, January 5.

What is NDSU’s playoff record?

North Dakota State has an exceptional playoff history. They have the most FCS championships of any program. Their record in the postseason is among the best in college football history.