There has been a discernible change in college football in recent years, especially when contrasting Divisional 1 Football Bowl Subdivision Known as the “FBS” institutions with Division Football Championship Subdivision “FCS” colleges. Due to their high finances, more honored recruiting pools, and more media attention, FBS schools have consistently held a dominant position in the national limelight. On the other hand, FCS programs, which have less resources and exposure, are persistently seen as developing leagues or stepping stones. But there are indications that this inconsistency is starting to close, and the changing nature of college football is making both divisions more competitive.
The fast growing ability of FCS institutions to draw in skilled athletes and coaching staff is one of the main causes of this shift. In order to compete at higher levels, several FCS teams have made calculated expenditures in coaching, facilities, and recruiting. James Madison Dukes transferred to the Sun Belt Conference in 2022 after years of supremacy in the FCS, which included a national title. With an athletic budget of $68 million in 2023 the most among Sun Belt members the program made coaching and facility upgrades that set it up for success in the FBS. Some institutions have established a reputation for producing players of NFL level, which draws talented athletes who would have otherwise targeted FBS programs. Furthermore, FCS players may now demonstrate their abilities on larger platforms thanks to the transfer portal, which has revolutionized the recruiting process for FBS institutions. Because of this greater mobility, skill is no longer constrained by divisional lines, resulting in a more even playing field.
The difference in funding between FCS and FBS institutions is also beginning to narrow. Many FCS colleges have discovered creative methods to boost income through effective marketing, postseason participation, and community involvement, even if FBS programs continue to enjoy greater budgets and more lucrative media deals. Strong home-field advantages and fervent fan bases have made certain FCS clubs stand out, which may result in increased income and recruitment prospects. Furthermore, FCS programs now have more exposure thanks to the growth of streaming services and digital media, which enables them to reach a larger audience and develop their brands without incurring the high costs of FBS programs.
The distinction between FCS and FBS is getting more hazy from a competitive perspective. Numerous instances exist where FCS teams have triumphed over FBS opponents, particularly in non-conference or early-season contests. These upsets show that FCS teams can compete at a high level and cast doubt on the conventional wisdom that FBS clubs are fundamentally better. These games are becoming more competitive and unpredictable as more FCS teams make investments in infrastructure, coaching, and player development.
