Samford has already clinched the SoCon title going into a game against a desperate Mercer team. Samford will be in the playoffs, but can basically seal a bye with a win over the bears this weekend. Samford will be competing with several other teams for the desired fourth seed. The fourth seed would guarantee a first-round bye, as well as home games in the second and third rounds.
North Dakota State has dominated the FCS in the past decade. This year, however, the Bison have two losses. More concerning, North Dakota State still has zero ranked wins. A win against rival North Dakota this weekend would go a long way to giving the Bison the fourth seed. While their resume is relatively weak, North Dakota State has a big brand and recent success in the playoffs.
Holy Cross is still undefeated, but has played a weaker schedule due to being in a weak conference. The Crusaders can wrap up an undefeated season barring an upset against Georgetown this weekend.
William and Mary has had a phenomenal year, but might not even win their conference this season. Even with a win over rival Richmond this weekend, William and Mary still doesn’t control their own destiny for the CAA’s auto bid. Richmond will present a tough test, and can throw a wrench into the playoff rankings if the Spiders can upset the Tribe.
Montana State hosts Montana in a huge Big Sky showdown this weekend. Montana State is a lock to be a top eight seed, but a loss in their biggest spotlight game of the year could allow teams like Samford or Holy Cross to jump them.
The FCS selection show will air on ESPNU this Sunday at 11:30 CT.
