2025 FCS Playoffs: Second Round Preview and Predictions

In-Depth Analysis

### Illinois State at No. 1 North Dakota State North Dakota State (NDSU) is heavily favored, boasting a strong defense and a versatile quarterback in Cole Payton. Illinois State needs to establish their rushing attack early and slow down Payton to stay competitive. NDSU's secondary is particularly strong, making passing difficult for Illinois State.

**Prediction:** North Dakota State wins comfortably.

### Yale at No. 2 Montana State Montana State has won 10 consecutive games and possesses a potent rushing offense. Yale, fresh off a historic comeback, will need to limit Montana State's ground game and avoid turnovers. The performance of Montana State's quarterback, Justin Lamson, will be key.

**Prediction:** Montana State wins by multiple scores.

### No. 12 Villanova at No. 5 Lehigh Lehigh's top-ranked rushing defense will be tested by Villanova's strong ground game. The game may hinge on which quarterback, Hayden Johnson (Lehigh) or Pat McQuaide (Villanova), can make crucial plays.

**Prediction:** Lehigh wins a close game.

### No. 10 Abilene Christian at No. 7 Stephen F. Austin This is a rematch where Abilene Christian previously defeated Stephen F. Austin. Stephen F. Austin's defense has been elite, but Abilene Christian has a knack for winning big games.

**Prediction:** Abilene Christian wins a close game.

### No. 9 Rhode Island at No. 8 UC Davis Expect a high-scoring affair with both teams showcasing explosive offenses. The performance of UC Davis's freshman quarterback, Caden Pinnick, will be critical.

**Prediction:** UC Davis wins a one-score game.

### North Dakota at No. 4 Tarleton State North Dakota's strong rushing defense will face a test against Tarleton State's balanced offense. The health of North Dakota's quarterback, Jerry Kaminski, is a key factor.

**Prediction:** Tarleton State wins a close game.

### No. 11 South Dakota at No. 6 Mercer Mercer’s freshman quarterback Braden Atkinson has been outstanding. South Dakota will rely on its rushing attack to control the game.

**Prediction:** Mercer wins a close game.

### No. 14 South Dakota State at No. 3 Montana This is arguably the most anticipated game of the second round. South Dakota State's recent form has been strong, but Montana's explosive offense, led by quarterback Keali'i Ah Yat and running back Eli Gillman, poses a significant threat.

**Prediction:** Montana wins a close game.

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FAQ

Takeaways

• The 2025 FCS Playoffs second round features several compelling matchups.
• Key factors to watch include quarterback performance, rushing defense, and weather conditions.
• Several teams are entering the playoffs with strong momentum, making for unpredictable games.
• Home-field advantage could play a significant role in close contests.

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Disclaimer

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