The 2025 FCS season’s biggest regular-season showdown is here – No. 1 North Dakota State vs. No. 2 South Dakota State, the Dakota Marker Game – and The FCS Edge is all over it in episode 11.

Co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell break down the keys to the game and the significance of the matchup before making their predictions.

And like all Montana fans, they’re boarding the Panda Express in anticipation of one of the week’s other big games.

• Southeastern Louisiana and Western Carolina are notable teams outside the Top 25.
• North Dakota has emerged as a strong contender this season.
• Time of possession is crucial in the North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State game.
• Montana is expected to perform well against Sacramento State.
• Illinois State vs. South Dakota is a critical Missouri Valley Football Conference game.
• The hosts emphasize the excitement of late-season FCS football.
• The dynamic of conference play adds intensity to the games.

With new episodes every week throughout the season, subscribe now and get The FCS Edge delivered straight to your podcast feed, or watch the show on YouTube.

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00:00 - Introduction to FCS Edge and Key Matchups 02:23 - Analysis of the FCS Top 25 Poll 05:37 - Surprising Teams in the Top 10 08:35 - Previewing North Dakota State vs. South Dakota State 11:36 - Game Strategies for North Dakota State 14:32 - Game Strategies for South Dakota State 17:24 - Impact of the Game on Rankings 20:43 - Jerry Rice Award Watch List Discussion 23:17 - Pick'em Segment: Key Games of the Week