The FCS Edge

By Opta Analyst

Get the edge on everything FCS football with The FCS Edge. Join expert national FCS writers Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell each week as they break down the biggest stories, standout performances and r... more

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FAQs about The FCS Edge:

How many episodes does The FCS Edge have?

The podcast currently has 130 episodes available.

The FCS Edge episodes:

October 22, 2025The Dakota Marker Show
The 2025 FCS season’s biggest regular-season showdown is here – No. 1 North Dakota State vs. No. 2 South Dakota State, the Dakota Marker Game – and The FCS Edge is all over it in episode 11.
Co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell break down the keys to the game and the significance of the matchup before making their predictions.
And like all Montana fans, they’re boarding the Panda Express in anticipation of one of the week’s other big games.
Here's some of the highlights from The Dakota Marker Show
Southeastern Louisiana and Western Carolina are notable teams outside the Top 25.
North Dakota has emerged as a strong contender this season.
Time of possession is crucial in the North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State game.
Montana is expected to perform well against Sacramento State.
Illinois State vs. South Dakota is a critical Missouri Valley Football Conference game.
The hosts emphasize the excitement of late-season FCS football.
The dynamic of conference play adds intensity to the games.
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.
Here are the timestamps to jump to your favourite bits of the show
00:00 - Introduction to FCS Edge and Key Matchups
02:23 - Analysis of the FCS Top 25 Poll
05:37 - Surprising Teams in the Top 10
08:35 - Previewing North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State
11:36 - Game Strategies for North Dakota State
14:32 - Game Strategies for South Dakota State
17:24 - Impact of the Game on Rankings
20:43 - Jerry Rice Award Watch List Discussion
23:17 - Pick'em Segment: Key Games of the Week
...more
37min
October 15, 2025T.C. Taylor Joins the Show
Have you caught your breath yet from Jackson State’s thrilling win over Alabama State? On The FCS Edge, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell are still trying, like many of us, so in episode 10, they brought in the right person to put it in perspective – Tigers head coach T.C. Taylor, who joins as a special guest.
Here are the highlights from our chat with T.C. Taylor
The recent win against Alabama State was a thrilling experience for the Tigers.
Quarterback JaCobian Morgan has shown significant improvement and consistency.
Quincy Ivory's versatility is a key asset to the defense.
Recruitment strategies have shifted toward high school talent.
The offensive line has performed exceptionally well this season.
The coaches are torn between the Celebration Bowl and FCS playoffs.
Emotional moments on the field drive team spirit and resilience.
Coach Taylor emphasizes the importance of player development.
The coaching staff has adapted to changes while maintaining success.
The team is focused on building a strong culture and identity.
Cut Craig and Zach some slack, though, because the big games and storylines are flying around FCS nation, and they’re on top of them, including with predictions of key Week 8 games.
Here are the timestamps to jump to your favourite bits of the show
00:00 - FCS Buzzwords: Upsets, Chaos and Bubble Teams
01:15 - Top 25 Teams: Strength and Losses
03:00 - Show Me Week: Expectations and Performance
06:22 - Cole Payton: The Offensive Star
08:49 - Dakota Marker Game: South Dakota State vs. North Dakota State
12:35 - Show Me Week: Lindenwood vs. Tennessee Tech
15:21 - Presbyterian: A First-Time Playoff Qualifier?
17:03 - Harvard: The Ivy League Contender
20:34 - Jackson State: Coach TC Taylor's Success
23:58 - T.C. Taylor Joins The Show
42.32 - Pick 'Ems Segment
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.
...more
57min
October 08, 2025Jared Allen Joins The Show
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
59min
October 01, 2025FCS Fast Starts
Catch them if you can. In The FCS Edge, episode 8, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell are exploring who’s sprinted out of the starting block of the 2025 season, from the Montana Grizzlies to the key MVFC powers with big matchups this week to players out in front of the Walter Payton and Buck Buchanan award conversations.
There aren’t many teams that have had a faster start than Tennessee Tech. Coach Bobby Wilder joins the show as a special guest to break down the undefeated Golden Eagles.
Here’s a rundown of the key talking points from our "‘FCS Fast Starts" interview with Coach Wilder:
The team's fast start is motivated by last season's near miss of an FCS playoff bid.
A strong culture of hard work is embodied in the phrase "grab a shovel, jump in the ditch and dig."
All 29 transfers have contributed positively to the team's performance.
The transfer portal operates at warp speed, requiring advanced scouting.
Effort and attention to detail are crucial for building a winning culture.
The team has a veteran presence that aids in maintaining focus on the process of winning.
The team is built to compete for the OVC-Big South title and potentially make a postseason run
Tennessee Tech is moving to the Southern Conference for better geographical alignment.
Travel logistics for student-athletes will improve significantly in the new conference.
Craig and Zach also look ahead to Week 6 with the pick 'ems segment expanding out to 10 games, with colleges across the FCS nation hoping to maintain their fast starts or even start to get out of the blocks.
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 in "FCS Fast Starts"
00:00 - Introduction and Overview of FCS Landscape
03:10 - Fast Starts and Key Matchups
06:05 - Ranking Controversies and Team Performances
09:04 - Individual Player Highlights and Awards Discussion
11:56 - Walter Payton Award Candidates
14:45 - Buck Buchanan Award Candidates
19:17 - Tennessee Tech Coach Bobby Wilder Joins the Show
39:29 - Pick'em Segment: Week 6 Predictions
42:22 - Key Matchups and Implications
45:14 - Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
...more
52min
September 24, 2025FCS Conference Kickoff
The FCS football schedule is shifting more into conference matchups, and, oh, is it about to get more heated (and downright wacky). In The FCS Edge, episode 7, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell break down the best teams and races.
NFL teams aren’t just looking at the key games, they’re looking at the best FCS prospects in the leadup to the 2026 NFL Draft. Craig and Zach are here to pinpoint them as well.
Here’s a rundown of the key talking points from our ‘FCS Conference Kickoff’ episode:
Conference play is finally here, ramping up excitement across the country.
Monmouth's impressive win over Villanova has elevated the Hawks in the Top 25 poll.
Southern Illinois is a dark horse to watch in the national championship race.
The SoCon race is shaping up to be chaotic this season.
Presbyterian's surprising performance has caught attention beyond the Pioneer League.
NDSU's Cole Payton is emerging as a top quarterback prospect this season.
NDSU wide receiver Bryce Lance is considered the top NFL prospect from the FCS level.
The Ivy League is showing competitive balance with multiple teams in contention.
The hosts emphasize the importance of conference matchups in determining playoff contenders.
As you would expect with conference kickoffs, our pick 'ems segment could end up giving you the edge in what to look out for on Saturday.
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 in "FCS Conference Kickoff"
00:00 - Kickoff to Conference Play
02:56 - Top 25 Poll Insights
06:14 - Dark Horses in the Championship Race
08:54 - Conference Races Heating Up
12:10 - Ivy League Surprises
15:00 - Potential Runaway Winners
17:31 - FCS NFL Draft Prospects
20:17 - Quarterback Prospects to Watch
24:18 - Evaluating NFL Draft Prospects From FCS
32:12 - Key Matchups and Predictions for Upcoming Games
...more
46min
September 17, 2025FCS Stock Report
There’s enough early season data for The FCS Edge co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell to pinpoint where teams stand. Mostly, that is as some teams remain a puzzle in our "FCS Stock Report."
But in episode 6, Craig and Zach look across FCS nation to help identify the contenders and the pretenders.
Monmouth is one of the impressive teams. Hawks coach Kevin Callahan joins the show as a special guest to discuss being the FCS’ longest-tenured and winningest active coach, and to give insight on national passing leader Derek Robertson.
Here's what you can look forward to in "FCS Stock Report"
Monmouth football has evolved significantly since its inception.
Adapting to changes in college football is crucial for success.
The importance of conference races can't be overstated in FCS football.
Freshmen play a vital role in many FCS programs' success, including at Monmouth.
The FCS community is built around local rivalries and conference pride.
Coaches must be upfront and honest with players about the transfer portal.
The Ivy League race is competitive and often overlooked.
Upcoming games will provide more data points for evaluating teams.
As ever, Craig and Zach end the latest episode with their pick 'ems segment, as ranked-vs.-ranked matchups and historic games get the treatment. It's an episode you can ill-afford to miss.
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 in "FCS Stock Report"
00:00 - Introduction to FCS Edge Podcast
03:07 - Week 3 Recap: Montana vs. North Dakota
05:52 - Top 25 Rankings and Surprises
09:17 - Taking Stock of the Season To Date
12:02 - Standout Teams and Underachievers
15:07 - Conference Depth and Rankings
17:53 - The Importance of Conference Races
23:19 - Coach Kevin Callahan Joins the Show
39:05 - Pick'em Segment: Key Matchups
50:01 - Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead
...more
52min
September 10, 2025Assessing the Start to FCS Season
Some teams look like they’re in midseason form, others are trying to resist hitting the panic button. In “The FCS Edge,” episode 5, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell are assessing the way different teams have made a start to the FCS season.
One team that only knows success to date is UTRGV. Coach Travis Bush joins the show as a special guest to discuss the Vaqueros’ fast start and the buildup to their program’s inaugural season.
Here's the key takeaways from our chat with UTRGV Head Coach Travis Bush:
A coaching philosophy that focuses on developing young men, not just winning games.
Recruiting in Texas is crucial for building a successful program.
Getting facilities in place from the start a key part of the early success.
Areas of improvement have been highlighted ahead of conference play.
Elsewhere in the show, Craig and Zach look forward to the Week 3 schedule, with their ever-popular Pick 'Ems segment. With Zach turning himself into somewhat of a road warrior, The FCS Edge certainly has it all this episode.
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.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction to FCS Football Highlights
00:57 - South Dakota State vs. Montana State Showdown
05:41 - Top 25 and Who Shouldn't Press The Panic Button
08:53 - The Impact of the 12-Game Schedule
13:38 - Ivy League's Playoff Prospects
17:18 - UTRGV Head Coach Travis Bush Joins The Show
31:59 - Week 3 Pick 'Ems
43:42 - Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
...more
47min
September 03, 2025Breaking Down the FCS Top 25 Rankings Rumblings
Whether it’s the good, bad or ugly, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell are all over the Top 25 rankings rumblings in “The FCS Edge,” episode 4. That No. 2 South Dakota State and No. 3 Montana State are meeting in a playoff-like showdown is a highlight, but the breakdown goes much deeper this week. Who’s too high and who’s too low?
Also, CAA Football commissioner Joe D’Antonio joins the show as a special guest to discuss the conference and its many changes.
Here's what you can look forward to "The FCS Edge," episode 4:
Tarleton State has emerged as a standout team early in the season.
The importance of maintaining a balanced conference schedule is crucial.
CAA expansion discussions are ongoing, focusing on adding competitive programs.
The FloSports deal has positively impacted the CAA's visibility and finances.
FCS football is evolving with the influence of NIL and scholarship changes.
The CAA playoff race is more challenging due to increased competition in the conference.
Key matchups this week could significantly impact playoff standings.
The hosts weigh the importance of on-field results versus projections in the rankings.
From Top 25 rankings rumblings to CAA expansion talks and playoff implications, Episode 4 of The FCS Edge has it all — don’t miss Craig Haley, Zach McKinnell and special guest Joe D’Antonio breaking it all down.
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.
Timestamps
00:00 Week One Recap and Impressive Performances
03:53 Top 25 Rankings Rumblings
08:49 Conference Dynamics and Team Projections
12:08 Who Needs to Take a Step Forward in Week 2?
16:08 Week 1 National Awards
16:43 Commissioner Joe D'Antonio Joins the Show
36:51 Week 2 Pick'ems
...more
52min
August 27, 2025Can the FCS Shock the FBS in Week 1?
They filled up pretty well on the appetizers when the 2025 FCS football season kicked off last weekend. But in “The FCS Edge,” episode 3, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell go all in with the full course of Week 1 action.
The schedule of games is delicious, including potential FCS vs. FBS upsets. Plus, Stan Becton from NCAA.com visits as a special guest to continue our preview and predictions for the entire season ahead.
Here's what you can look forward to "The FCS Edge," episode 3:
Week 0 provided insights into under-the-radar players and teams.
Potential dark horse teams include Southern Illinois and Illinois State.
FCS-vs.-FBS matchups are crucial for gaining national attention.
North Carolina Central's offensive line showed great potential in its last game.
Tarleton State's shutout win sets it up for a strong matchup against Army.
The Walter Payton Award candidates include quarterbacks Aidan Bouman (South Dakota) and Derek Robertson (Monmouth).
Lehigh aims to make a statement against Richmond in the season's first Patriot League game.
Sacramento State's new go-go offense will be tested against South Dakota State's defense.
The SWAC has a chance to end a long FBS losing streak this season.
Week 1 is here — FCS upsets, dark horses and bold predictions are on deck. This is the episode you can’t miss.
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.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:55 Under-the-Radar Players in Week 0
02:10 Week 0 Review
10:38 NDSU Season Gets Underway
11:14 FCS-vs-FBS Picks
17:56 Stan Becton Joins The Show
19:14 Playoff Dark Horses
20:16 Key HBCU Storylines
26:37 Walter Payton Picks
27:44 Buck Buchanan Picks
30:22 Week 1 Pick 'Ems.
...more
48min
August 20, 2025NDSU Football Coach Tim Polasek Joins The FCS Edge
No build-up is necessary, “The FCS Edge” has gone straight to the top at the start of the 2025 college football season.
Coach Tim Polasek of reigning national champion North Dakota State joins co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell as a guest in episode 2 to discuss the Bison and the season ahead, including:
North Dakota State is focused on continuous improvement this season.
Managing expectations is crucial for the team's success.
The secondary has shown significant development and strength.
Cole Payton is an explosive athlete with potential as a quarterback.
Barika Kpeenu is expected to be a key player in the running back group.
Maintaining tradition while innovating is essential for the program.
The defensive line has depth and potential for a strong season.
Tim Polasek values his community and the lessons learned from his past.
Coaching is about building trust and relationships with players.
The journey of coaching is fulfilling and driven by passion.
In addition, Craig and Zach span FCS nation with previews and predictions for both Week 0 and the entire season .
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.
“The FCS Edge” is produced by Graham Bell.
Time Stamps
00:00 Kickoff to the 2025 FCS Season
03:32 Analysing Championship Contender
06:42 HBCU and Celebration Bowl Insights
13:28 Opta Supercomputer Projections
18:32 Introduction to Head Coach Tim Polasek
21:19 Managing Expectations and Pressure
24:12 Strengthening the Secondary
27:18 Quarterback Dynamics and Offensive Strategy
30:00 Running Back Development and Depth
31:14 Balancing Tradition and Innovation
34:03 Defensive Line Insights
37:50 Tim Polasek's Journey and Values
41:37 Week 0 Preview
...more
55min

FAQs about The FCS Edge:

How many episodes does The FCS Edge have?

The podcast currently has 130 episodes available.

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