Undefeated NDSU Earns Top Seed in Stacked 2025 FCS Playoff Bracket

The 2025 FCS playoff field is officially set. North Dakota State secured the No. 1 overall seed after a perfect 12-0 regular season. The bracket reveal aired Sunday on ESPNU. The 24-team tournament begins with first-round games on Saturday, November 29.

NDSU’s top seeding grants them a coveted first-round bye and home-field advantage. The Bison are the defending national champions and now pursue an 11th FCS title. According to ESPN’s broadcast, Montana State earned the No. 2 seed.

Bison Domination: The Path to the Top Seed

North Dakota State was flawless in 2025. Head coach Tim Polasek’s team navigated the tough Missouri Valley Football Conference without a loss. Their resume includes six victories against ranked FCS opponents. That strength of schedule impressed the selection committee.

The Bison offense averaged over 36 points per game. Their defense was equally stout, creating a nearly unbeatable formula. The team’s last loss came in the 2024 postseason. This year’s squad has shown remarkable consistency and poise.

Bracket Breakdown: Contenders and Challengers

Montana State sits as the second seed with a strong 10-2 record. The Bobcats also receive a first-round bye. Seeds three through eight avoid the opening weekend as well. This rewards their regular-season success.

First-round hosts include programs like Tarleton State and Montana. These teams face immediate win-or-go-home pressure. The bracket sets up potential heavyweight clashes in the quarterfinals and beyond. Every team’s path to Frisco, Texas, is now clear.

The Road to the National Championship

The playoff schedule is set. Second-round action occurs on December 6. The quarterfinals follow on December 12-13. The semifinals are scheduled for December 19-20.

The FCS National Championship game will be in January 2026. It will be played at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas. NDSU hopes to be there, continuing its dynasty. The entire tournament will broadcast across ESPN platforms.

North Dakota State is the team to beat in this 2025 FCS playoff bracket. Their perfect record and top seeding make them the clear favorite. The journey for the national title starts now.

Thought you’d like to know

When do the FCS playoffs start?

The first round begins Saturday, November 29. The top eight seeded teams have a bye that weekend and enter in the second round on December 6.

Where can I watch the FCS playoff games?

Early rounds will stream on ESPN+. Select games will air on ESPNU and ESPN2. The championship game in January will broadcast on ABC.

Who are the top seeds in the 2025 bracket?

North Dakota State is the No. 1 seed. Montana State is No. 2. South Dakota State and Idaho rounded out the top four seeds, all receiving first-round byes.

How many teams make the FCS playoffs?

The field includes 24 teams. Eleven conference champions receive automatic bids. The remaining 13 teams are selected at-large by the NCAA committee.

Is North Dakota State the defending champion?

Yes. NDSU won the 2024 FCS national championship in January 2025 by defeating Montana State. They are aiming for back-to-back titles.

Trusted Sources: ESPN, NCAA.com, Missouri Valley Football Conference, Associated Press.