Montana State’s overtime win over Illinois State in the FCS championship game was off-the-charts thrilling, and Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell break it down in The FCS Edge, episode 20.

As part of the 2025 season’s final episode, our co-hosts also review many of the top memories.

• Montana State's victory was a culmination of years of hard work.
• Special teams played a crucial role in the championship outcome.
• The atmosphere in Nashville was unmatched for an FCS game.
• Coaching decisions significantly impacted the game's flow.
• The playoffs showcased the depth and competitiveness of FCS football.
• Community engagement is vital for the growth of FCS football.
• The FCS national awards ceremony highlighted outstanding individual performances.
• Memorable moments from the season will resonate with fans.
• The future of FCS football looks promising with emerging programs.
• Fan support is essential for the success of FCS teams.

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.

• 00:00 - The thrilling championship game recap
• 02:51 - Key moments and players in the game
• 05:53 - Special teams impact and decisions
• 08:59 - Atmosphere and fan engagement
• 11:53 - Contrasting styles of play
• 14:42 - Final thoughts on the season and rankings
• 17:53 - Looking ahead to future locations
• 20:43 - Awards and season highlights
• 26:22 - Evaluating the top players of the season
• 31:31 - Memorable moments and highlights of the season
• 38:14 - The future of FCS football
• 44:30 - Reflections on the season and community impact

FCS fans, take a bow, we’ve arrived in FCS championship week.

The Montana State vs. Illinois State matchup is incredible, and Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell will get you ready for it in The FCS Edge, episode 19. From keys to the game to players to watch to predictions, our co-hosts break it all down.

The Stats Perform FCS National Awards Show also will be held this week, highlighted by the announcements of the Walter Payton and Buck Buchanan awards. Master of ceremonies Dom Izzo visits the show to discuss the gala event.

• The FCS National Awards Show is a significant event for FCS football.
• Montana State and Illinois State are set for an exciting championship game.
• Key players and matchups will play a crucial role in the outcome.
• Coaching strategies will be pivotal in the championship game.
• Experience and youth dynamics will impact team performance.
• Fan engagement and attendance are expected to be high in Nashville.
• The underdog story of Illinois State adds intrigue to the matchup.
• Montana State's journey to the championship reflects its growth as a program.
• Predictions suggest a competitive game with close scores.
• The significance of the awards show highlights the talent in FCS football.

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.

• 00:00 - Introduction to FCS Championship Game
• 03:08 - Montana State vs. Illinois State: Matchup Analysis
• 05:49 - Key Players and Matchups to Watch
• 09:07 - Coaching Strategies and Experience
• 12:00 - Concerns and Potential Pitfalls
• 15:11 - FCS Championship Game Dynamics
• 18:10 - Attendance and Fan Engagement
• 21:44 - Dom Izzo Joins The Show
• 39:03 - FCS Championship Game Pick 'Em

Tighten your seat belt even more - FCS football is not for the faint of heart. One of its biggest rivalries and two party crashers fill the playoff semifinals just one week after the Celebration Bowl had its wildest finish.

In The FCS Edge, episode 18, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell try to bring clarity to it all. Emphasis on “try” because their heads are spinning, too - but they’re ready with predictions for Nashville.

• The FCS playoffs have seen unprecedented chaos this year.
• Montana State's defensive line is a key factor in its success.
• Villanova's defense has been impressive, shutting down top offenses.
• Illinois State has proven to be formidable on the road.
• The Celebration Bowl showcased the competitiveness of HBCU football.
• Coaching changes in the FCS are significant and impactful.
• The importance of establishing a run game in playoff football.
• Turnovers can be game-changers in close matchups.
• The rivalry between Montana and Montana State adds excitement to the playoffs.
• The FCS playoffs are showcasing a new level of parity.

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.

• 00:00 - FCS playoff chaos and surprises
• 02:43 - Montana State's dominance and performance
• 05:38 - Montana Grizzlies: Rising stars and coaching brilliance
• 08:28 - Villanova's resilience and defensive prowess
• 11:32 - Illinois State's road warrior mentality
• 14:19 - South Carolina State's comeback victory
• 17:27 - MEAC vs SWAC: A historical perspective
• 21:59 - Celebration Bowl insights
• 23:03 - FCS coaching changes overview
• 28:23 - FCS semifinals preview
• 29:11 - Montana vs. Montana State matchup
• 36:58 - Illinois State vs. Villanova matchup
• 40:25 - FCS playoff parity discussion