Week 10 of the 2025 FCS season brings excitement with two key ranked matchups that could significantly impact playoff standings. After a mixed record of 6-4 in the previous week, predictions are set for the upcoming action.
Starting with the clash between No. 2/2 Tarleton State and No. 24/25 Abilene Christian, the stakes are undeniably high. Tarleton State is eyeing a coveted No. 2 seed in the playoffs, a crucial advantage that could determine their path to the national championship. Conversely, Abilene Christian, coming off a disappointing upset against Southern Utah, holds a 4-4 record and finds themselves in a must-win situation. They need to secure victory in their final four games to remain in contention for a playoff spot. ACU’s past triumph over Tarleton, a thrilling 35-31 win last year that clinched them the UAC title, adds to the intensity of this matchup. However, Tarleton looks formidable with a series of wins under their belt and strong performances by quarterback Victor Gabalis and standout running back Tre Page III. The expectation leans towards the Texans continuing their winning streak, with a predicted score of 35-24.
In another exciting showdown, No. 18/19 Youngstown State faces off against top-ranked North Dakota State. Both teams feature prominent players competing for the Walter Payton Award: YSU’s Beau Brungard and NDSU’s Cole Payton. Despite YSU’s recent struggles against ranked opponents, they possess a dynamic offense. However, NDSU’s robust defense, complemented by a powerful offensive unit that has consistently posted high scores against competitive teams, appears to be a formidable obstacle. Predictions favor North Dakota State with a score of 38-17.
In the Ivy League, Dartmouth will take on No. 12/15 Harvard, which is having an exceptional season at 6-0. While Harvard aims to maintain its undefeated status, Dartmouth’s strong performance thus far has raised the possibility of the Ivy League securing two playoff bids. This matchup carries significant implications as both teams vie for the league title and potential playoff berths, with Harvard predicted to win 28-17.
Additional predictions include:
– Idaho at No. 19/21 Northern Arizona, anticipated to be a close contest with NAU favored at 35-28.
– Gardner-Webb at No. 9/8 Tennessee Tech, where Tennessee Tech looks to continue their undefeated run at 31-14.
– Drake at Butler, with Drake expected to win 34-21 in a battle for Pioneer Football League supremacy.
– No. 8/10 North Dakota visiting South Dakota, eyed for a comfortable North Dakota victory at 28-14.
– No. 15/13 Mercer faces Furman, with Mercer on track for a win predicted at 38-21.
– Western Carolina is expected to edge out Chattanooga at 35-27, while Stephen F. Austin is favored over UTRGV at 34-28.
The week promises thrilling matchups, pivotal for teams aiming to secure playoff positions. With many games airing on various platforms, fans can look forward to an action-packed weekend of FCS football.