The FCS Edge

Jared Allen Joins The Show

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There have been special guests on The FCS Edge this season, but in episode 9, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell welcome in perhaps the greatest Buck Buchanan Award recipient, Jared Allen.

The 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee reflects on his playing career, compares the FCS between then and now, and, of course, shares his love of the sport of curling.

Here are the highlights from our interview of Pro Football Hall of Famer Jared Allen
  • Jared Allen emphasizes the importance of tradition in FCS football.
  • The disparity in scholarships between FCS and FBS schools affects player recruitment.
  • Player transfers have changed the landscape of college football significantly.
  • Building loyalty and teamwork is crucial for success in college football.
  • FCS programs can still thrive and build competitive teams.
  • The transition from college to NFL requires a focus on fundamentals.
  • The Hall of Fame experience is about reflection and camaraderie with fellow players.
  • Edge rushers have a rich history in the NFL, with many legends to consider.
  • Pass rushing is an art form that requires skill and technique.
  • Jared Allen's curling aspirations highlight his diverse interests beyond football.

    • As usual, Craig and Zach are up to their shenanigans, detailing the big performances and matchups across FCS nation before they predict key games this week.

    Here are takeaways discussed elsewhere in the show:
    • The playoff bubble is tighter than ever this year.
    • Montana State's defense is a key strength this season.
    • South Dakota State showed resilience in tough games.
    • Conference structures impact team performance and scheduling.
    • Western Carolina's Taron Dickens set a new record with 46 straight completions.
    • Abilene Christian is better than its record suggests.
    • Villanova has potential to rise in rankings.
    • UC Davis and Youngstown State are teams to watch.
    • The FCS playoff selection committee will have tough decisions.

      • 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 (to jump to the bits you want to hear)

      00:00 - Midseason Reflections and Playoff Races
      01:08 - Montana State's Dominance and Defensive Strength
      03:00 - Top Teams Tested: North Dakota State and South Dakota State
      06:12 - Poll Rankings and Bubble Conversations
      09:30 - Conference Structure and Scheduling Challenges
      12:04 - Taron Dickens' Record-Setting Performance
      14:29 - Playoff Implications and Bubble Teams
      15:07 - Teams to Watch: Abilene Christian and Villanova
      17:22 - Potential Downfalls for High-Performing Teams
      19:37 - In-Season Rankings and Selection Committee Insights
      23:48 - Jared Allen Joins the Show
      46:54 - Week 7 Pick'Ems Segment

      ...more
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