Brian McLaughlin and Sam Herder discuss all things FCS on the HERO Sports Podcast Network.
The FCS Podcast is the go-to show for anyone who loves and wants to stay informed about FCS football. Hosted by Sam Herder, a known expert in the field, this podcast provides comprehensive coverage of all things FCS. Whether you attended an FCS school, love the division, or simply want to keep up with your FBS team's opponents, this podcast has got you covered. With its insightful analysis and deep knowledge of the FCS landscape, it's no wonder why The FCS Podcast quickly becomes a staple in many listeners' weekly rotation.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the level of expertise and insight provided by Sam Herder. He truly knows the FCS like no one else and his analysis is on par with that of Adrian Wojnarowski in the NBA. His deep understanding of each team and his ability to provide context and background information add tremendous value to the show. Additionally, listeners appreciate that each episode is well-organized and often includes bonus content that broadens their perspective on FCS football.
While it's hard to find any significant flaws in The FCS Podcast, some listeners may argue that it could benefit from more diverse perspectives or guest appearances. While Sam Herder does an excellent job on his own, having other voices in the conversation could add even more depth to the coverage. However, this is merely a minor critique as Sam's expertise still shines through in every episode.
In conclusion, The FCS Podcast is an essential listen for fans of FCS football. With its unparalleled coverage and insights into the national landscape of college football's lower division, this show sets itself apart from others in its category. Whether you're a diehard fan or just looking to expand your knowledge beyond your favorite team, The FCS Podcast provides top-notch content that will leave you wanting more after each episode.
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On this episode, Sam and Zach preview the FCS championship game between Montana State and Illinois State. What are some key matchups, things to watch, and storylines heading into this game?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam is joined by Colter Nuanez of Skyline Sports and ESPN Montana. They discuss:-Montana State's journey to the national title game-How this year's team has a different personality from last year's team-Is last year's championship result a motivating factor?-Is this the best coaching job by Brent Vigen in his time at MSU?-Justin Lamson and the new-look offense-Illinois State matchup-Nashville-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam is joined by John Fitzgerald, the play-by-play voice for Illinois State. They discuss:-Illinois State's playoff journey to Nashville-When did things click for Illinois State-The win at NDSU-Expected crowd in Nashville-Key players for Illinois State-Brock Spack-Illinois State adapting to the new age of college athletics-The matchup against Montana State-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Montana State head coach Brent Vigen, offensive lineman JT Reed, and defensive tackle Paul Brott met with the media for a virtual press conference a week before the FCS championship. In-person media interviews will be conducted two days before the game in Nashville. Here is audio from the Dec. 29 presser.
Illinois State head coach Brock Spack, quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse, and linebacker Tye Niekamp met with the FCS media for a virtual press conference a week before the FCS championship. In-person media interviews will be conducted two days before the game in Nashville. Here is audio from the Dec. 29 presser.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-Recapping the semifinal games as Montana State defeats Montana in an epic atmosphere, and Illinois State's incredible run continues with a win at Villanova.-They then give a 500-foot view of the FCS championship matchup and the atmosphere it'll be in Nashville.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from the quarterfinals-Previewing the semifinal round-How hyped is the Montana-Montana State game? How unexpected is the Illinois State-Villanova game? What are the keys to victory? And is new blood in one semifinal matchup good for the FCS?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from the 2nd round.-What do we make of NDSU's loss and Mercer's performance? Meanwhile, USD and Montana impress in their wins.-Game-by-game previews for the quarterfinals and Celebration Bowl.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from the 1st round-Game-by-game previews for the 2nd roundThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss the FCS playoff bracket. What were the biggest surprises in the seeds and on the bubble? They then break down each corner of the bracket before looking into the FCS championship odds.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss playoff outlooks for each conference. Who are some bid thieves? Who is on the playoff bubble? Who is in a position to earn a Top 16 seed and a Top 8 seed? They break it all down here.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 11-USD, Mercer, Lamar, YSU, and NDSU all pick up wins in ranked matchups-Playoff scenarios for teams and conferences, and how some Week 12 games impact the postseason picture-Notable games include No. 14 Illinois State at No. 16 South Dakota State, No. 19 Lamar at No. 15 Stephen F. Austin, No. 17 South Dakota at No. 21 Southern Illinois, No. 9 UC Davis at No. 3 Montana State, and No. 11 Rhode Island at MaineThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 10-Which upsets were most surprising between:No. 24/25 ACU beat No. 2/2 Tarleton StateIndiana State beat No. 4/5 SDSUIdaho State beat No. 6/6 UC DavisSouth Dakota beat No. 8/10 North DakotaUIW beat No. 14/14 LamarIdaho beat No. 19/21 Northern ArizonaSouthern Utah beat No. 22/24 Austin Peay-What to do with teams like Tarleton State and SDSU?-Did we jump the gun on the NDSU vs. the field talk?-Top 4 playoff seed scenariosThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 9-NDSU rolls SDSU, James Conway breaks an FCS career record, Michael Wortham is a star, and UTRGV continues to impress-Is it NDSU vs. the field? And where does SDSU go from here?-Big implications this week for No. 2/2 Tarleton State at No. 24/25 Abilene Christian-A look at Top 8 playoff seed scenariosThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 8-No. 1/1 NDSU at No. 2/2 SDSU preview. How crucial is Chase Mason's status in this game? What are the key matchups? And what are the implications?-No. 18/20 Illinois State at No. 21/NR South Dakota preview. A huge matchup for playoff hopes.-No. 4/4 Montana at Sac State preview. A major game, plus some antics adding more drama.-No. 3/3 Tarleton State at Eastern Kentucky preview. Can Tarleton keep it rolling?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam discusses the FCS playoff committee's Top 10 ranking. He breaks down the order of teams, their resumes, and some teams just on the outside.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 7-Projecting what they think the playoff committee's Top 6 will be when it reveals its Top 10 ranking on Wednesday?-Are the top two obvious? Who has the best argument for the No. 3 spot? We think we know who the five teams are to be sorted within the Top 5, but how many teams are in position for the No. 6 spot?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 6-What do we make of multiple Top 7 teams escaping upsets?-As we hit the midway point of the season, some hypothetical playoff seed scenarios get thrown into the discussion-Week 7 preview-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 5-Discussing how we ranked the Top 5 nationally-Week 6 preview: No. 1 NDSU at No. 6 Illinois State, No. 2 SDSU at No. 24 Youngstown State, No. 5 Montana State at No. 13 Northern Arizona, No. 16 West Georgia at No. 22 Austin Peay-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-A new model pitch for the FCS playoffs is being presented to commissioners. What is it? What are the positives? What are the negatives? Will it happen?-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 4The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 3-Montana beats UND in comeback fashion-Tarleton State and SIU dominate on the road-NDSU QB Cole Payton off to a hot start-Rhody improves to 3-0 -UIW makes a QB switch-Week 4 top games-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 2-SDSU's big win at Montana State -Abilene Christian gets a ranked win over SFA-The Pioneer gets two more big non-conference wins -Lamar knocks off South Dakota -Bryant and LIU earn FBS wins-Week 3 top games-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 1-Tarleton State and Austin Peay earn FBS wins-SDSU and Lehigh grab ranked victories-Two ranked SoCon teams get upset-Multiple FCS teams nearly beat FBS opponents-NDSU, Montana State, SDSU debut new QBs-Week 2 top games-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam is joined by Southland Conference Commissioner Chris Grant. The two discuss:-Nicholls' upset over No. 5 UIW on ESPN2-Southland's rise-UTRGV's potential-New media deal-Moving to a 9-game conference schedule-FCS championship moving to Nashville-Conference realignment-New D1 governance-And more
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 0-Reacting to Nicholls knocking off No. 5 UIW-Thoughts on Mercer-UC Davis resulting in a no-contest due to lighting-Most intriguing Week 1 games. Will we see any FCS over FBS wins? Can Lehigh make a statement? How juicy is Sac State at SDSU?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds
FCS representatives held a press conference on Thursday ahead of the 2025 season, giving the media an opportunity to ask questions about the FCS playoffs and championship game.In attendance were Chattanooga AD and FCS Championship Committee Chair Mark Wharton, Nashville Sports Council President Scott Ramsey, OVC Commissioner Beth DeBauche, and NCAA Director of Championships Ty Halpin.Here is audio from the presser.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss some storylines for Week 0.Games include:No. 5 UIW at Nicholls (ESPN2)Idaho State at UNLV (Mountain West Network)No. 10 Tarleton State at Portland State (ESPN2)No. 8 UC Davis vs. No. 11 Mercer (ESPN)NC Central vs. Southern (ABC)The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit Hero Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss some questions heading into the season.-In alphabetical order, these were the first 4 teams left out of the 2024 FCS playoff bracket - Chattanooga, Southeastern Louisiana University, Southern Utah, Stony Brook. Which of these teams is most likely to make the 2025 playoff bracket?-In alphabetical order, these were the last 4 teams selected into the 2024 FCS playoff bracket - Eastern Kentucky, Northern Arizona, Tennessee State, UT Martin. Which of these teams is LEAST likely to make the 2025 playoff bracket?-What is South Dakota State's most likely record after its first 2 games?-Will the House settlement era (schools revenue-sharing with players, in-house NIL, no scholarship limits unless conferences individually set them) create more parity in the FCS nationally, or will it widen the gap even more?-Which FCS conference will see the next team move to the FBS?-What are your expectations for the Ivy League champion and their FCS playoff debut this season?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit Hero Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss their Top 25 ballots for the Stats Perform FCS Preseason Media Poll.Sam's ballot can be found here. Zach's can be found here.They discuss:-Why did they rank some teams where they are-Top teams with new starting quarterbacks-Teams returning strong experience-Teams that didn't make the 2024 playoffs that will in 2025-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam is joined by Sac State football play-by-play broadcaster Jason RossThey discuss:-Sac State's FBS push and where things stand right now-2026 plans and schedule-Fan thoughts on FBS push-2025 squad and competing for an FCS title-Recruiting-New stadium-NIL pledges-And more
HERO Sports was on site for MVFC Media Day on July 21 in Sioux Falls, SD. Here is some audio from head coach and player interviews with the media. Stay tuned for more stories and coverage on herosports.com0:00:00 -- SDSU HC Dan Jackson, DT Kobe Clayborne0:18:01 -- YSU HC Doug Phillips, DB DJ Harris0:28:21 -- NDSU HC Tim Polasek, LB Logan Kopp0:44:10 -- SIU HC Nick Hill, QB DJ Williams1:00:48 -- Murray State HC Jody Wright, RB Jawaun Northington1:15:40 -- USD HC Travis Johansen, RB Charles Pierre Jr.1:34:53 -- Indiana State HC Curt Mallory, LB Dallas Westhoff1:46:00 -- UND HC Eric Schmidt, LB Malachi McNeal1:55:25 -- Illinois State HC Brock Spack, DL Jake Anderson2:13:20 -- UNI HC Todd Stepsis, TE Derek Anderson
On this episode, Sam is joined by North Dakota head coach Eric Schmidt.They discuss:-Being a first-time head coach in the new era of college football -UND's facilities and growth -Early recruiting success -Opting in and revenue-sharing -The Dakotas' strength in the FCS and aiming for that standard-Alerus Center -2025 squad-And more
On this episode, Sam is joined by Zach McKinnell of FCS Football Central and The Bluebloods.They discuss:-Transfer portal-UIW additions-USD and SDSU outlooks-Sac State's FBS push-W&M joining the Patriot League-Early preseason Top 5-And more
On this episode, Sam is joined by Harvard head coach Andrew Aurich. They discuss:-Leading the Harvard football program-The Ivy League now sending its champ to the FCS playoffs-Recruiting to the Ivy League-Being protected from the transfer portal-The Game-Harvard's one captain tradition-2025 outlook-And more
On this episode, Sam is joined by UIW head coach Clint Killough. They discuss:-Offseason excitement -Retaining top talent-Making splash additions via the transfer portal-Chasing an FCS championship-QB competition-UIW football's growth-Being a young head coach-Non-conference scheduling-And more
On this episode, Sam is joined by UTRGV head coach Travis Bush. They discuss:-Helping build UTRGV football from scratch -Assembling his staff-Recruiting high schoolers and the transfer portal-Benefits to UTRGV's location-Community excitement and selling out season tickets-Practicing last fall-And more
On this episode, Sam is joined by Montana State Director of Athletics Leon Costello. They discuss:-Reflecting on the 2024 football season-National title chase-Opting in to the House settlement-Scholarship caps-Brent Vigen-Sac State's FBS move-Realignment in the West-College football landscape-12-game FCS season-And more
On this episode, Sam is joined by SoCon Commissioner Michael Cross. They discuss:-The SoCon's approach to the House settlement-The vote to keep scholarship limits the same-How many FCS schools could afford to go above 63 scholarships-How many SoCon schools will opt in-The SoCon keeping its in-conference transfer rule-Governance changes in Division I-And more
On this episode, Sam is joined by ETSU head coach Will Healy.They discuss:-Healy's FCS roots, from being a QB on Richmond's 2008 national championship team to an assistant coach at Chattanooga to being the HC at Austin Peay and now ETSU-The differences and similarities between the G5 and FCS-What attracted him to ETSU-What he's learned as a younger head coach-Positives and negatives he's learned from recruiting the transfer portal-Landing FBS transfer QBs Cade McNamara and Jacolby Criswell-2025 spring ball -And more
On this episode, Sam is joined by Idaho head coach Thomas Ford Jr.They discuss:-Taking over as Idaho's head coach-Ford's rise in the coaching profession-Navigating the transfer portal-Idaho fans' thirst for more success-A look at the 2025 squad-And more
On this episode, Sam chats 1-on-1 with North Dakota State head coach Tim Polasek.They discuss:-NDSU's championship run-Not losing any players to the transfer portal after the title game-Former Bison players on the coaching staff-FCS changes while he was in the FBS from 2017-2023-Ever-changing CFB landscape-2025 QB competition-And more
FCS committee chair Matt Larsen (NDSU AD), vice chair Mark Wharton (Chattanooga AD), and NCAA Director of Championships Ty Halpin addressed the media in Frisco two days before the FCS national championship game.They discussed the new bracket format, the future site of the FCS championship game, Nashville, TV windows, the Ivy League joining the FCS playoffs, and more.
North Dakota State head coach Tim Polasek addressed the media in Frisco two days before the FCS national championship game.
Montana State head coach Brent Vigen addresses the media in Frisco two days before the FCS national championship game.
On this episode, Colter Nuanez of Skyline Sports and ESPN Montana discusses Montana State's run to the national championship game.Discussion points include:-What's the vibe right now in Montana?-This MSU squad's business-like attitude -Brent Vigen staying-Tommy Mellott's play-Defensive improvements-Senior class of Montana natives-Biggest cause for confidence and biggest cause for concern for MSU going up against NDSUThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit https://herosports.com/ for FCS coverage and https://sports.betmgm.com/en/sports for online betting odds.
On this episode, The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead's Mike McFeely joins to discuss NDSU's return to the national championship game.Discussion points include:-Level of excitement after a 1-year Frisco hiatus-Tim Polasek and the energy he's brought-Cam Miller's play-Brent Vigen's time at NDSU-Will the game be back in Frisco-Plus an unscripted segment about NDSU and the FBSThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit https://herosports.com/ for FCS coverage and https://sports.betmgm.com/en/sports for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam Herder and Zach McKinnell preview the FCS championship game, discussing the key storylines and matchups between No. 1 Montana State and No. 2 NDSU.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit https://herosports.com/ for FCS coverage and https://sports.betmgm.com/en/sports for online betting odds.
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