NCAA Division I Football Championship Series

The NCAA Division I Football Championship Series (FCS) is a postseason playoff system to determine the national champion among the top-tier college football teams in Division I. Unlike the higher-profile Bowl Subdivision (FBS), the FCS features a tournament format, where 24 teams are selected based on rankings and conference championships. These teams compete in a single-elimination bracket, with the final game called the championship or "FCS Championship," usually held in January. The system emphasizes a playoff structure to crown a clear national champion, showcasing competitive balance and providing more teams an opportunity for postseason success.