What's Happening?
The FCS Championship game is set to take place in Nashville, featuring Illinois State against Montana State. Scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern on ESPN, this matchup sees Illinois State, with a 12-4 record,
competing against Montana State, which holds a 13-2 record. Montana State enters the game as a 10.5-point favorite, according to FanDuel. This game is the only college football event on January 5, 2026, as the traditional bowl schedule has concluded. The remaining college football season includes two College Football Playoff (CFP) bowl games and the national championship, which will occur on January 19.
Why It's Important?
The FCS Championship game is significant as it determines the national champion at the FCS level, showcasing the talents and competitiveness of teams outside the FBS. For Illinois State, a victory would mark a major achievement and elevate the program's status nationally. The game also provides exposure for players who may be looking to advance to professional levels. Additionally, the outcome could influence future recruitment and funding for the programs involved. The broader college football landscape is also impacted as fans and stakeholders anticipate the conclusion of the season with the upcoming CFP games and national championship.
What's Next?
Following the FCS Championship, attention will shift to the remaining CFP bowl games, with the Fiesta Bowl featuring Miami against Ole Miss on January 8, and the Peach Bowl with Indiana facing Oregon on January 9. These games will lead up to the national championship on January 19, which will conclude the college football season. The results of these games will have implications for team rankings, player draft prospects, and the overall narrative of the college football season.
