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FCS Playoffs Heat Up: Defending Champs North Dakota State Shine

12/6/2025

25 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On December 6, 2025, the FCS playoffs continue with North Dakota State vs Illinois State and Montana State vs Yale; ESPN+ streams all games.
North Dakota State, the defending champion, owns a 12-0 record and is led by quarterback Cole Payton, who has 28 total touchdowns.
Montana State has a 10-game winning streak and seeks a deep playoff run.
Yale is making its playoff debut after a dramatic comeback win against Youngstown State.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA established the Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) in 1978, creating a playoff system for college football. The inaugural championship saw the University of Delaware narrowly defeat the University of Massachusetts 14-13. This structure has enabled teams like North Dakota State, which has won 10 championships since 2011, to excel in a competitive landscape that includes programs like Montana State and Yale.

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Story summary

On December 6, 2025, the FCS playoffs continue with North Dakota State vs Illinois State and Montana State vs Yale; ESPN+ streams all games.
North Dakota State, the defending champion, owns a 12-0 record and is led by quarterback Cole Payton, who has 28 total touchdowns.
Montana State has a 10-game winning streak and seeks a deep playoff run.
Yale is making its playoff debut after a dramatic comeback win against Youngstown State.

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