Sat Dec 06 19:40:00 UTC 2025: ## FCS Playoffs Second Round: Upsets Loom as Top Seeds Enter the Fray

Nationwide – The 2025 FCS Playoffs are heating up as the top eight seeds emerge from their bye weeks to join the second-round action. After a strong showing in the first round, analysts are making predictions for a weekend full of potentially thrilling matchups, with several unseeded teams poised to challenge the established order.

Key Matchups and Predictions:

  • Villanova vs. Lehigh: Villanova, fresh off a dominant first-round victory, faces a tough test against undefeated Lehigh. The article predicts a Lehigh victory 27-20.
  • South Dakota vs. Mercer: South Dakota, riding a four-game winning streak, travels to face a Mercer team on a nine-game winning streak. The article predicts a South Dakota win 35-31.
  • Illinois State vs. North Dakota State: North Dakota State, a heavy favorite for the national title, hosts Illinois State in a regular-season rematch. The article predicts a North Dakota State victory 35-14.
  • North Dakota vs. Tarleton State: North Dakota heads to Tarleton State. Article predicts a Tarleton State win 31-27.
  • Abilene Christian vs. Stephen F. Austin: Abilene Christian goes on the road to Stephen F. Austin in a rematch. Article predicts a Stephen F. Austin victory 28-21.
  • South Dakota State vs. Montana: Defending champion South Dakota State travels to Montana. Article predicts a Montana victory 35-31.
  • Yale vs. Montana State: Yale heads to Montana State. Article predicts a Montana State victory 38-17.
  • Rhode Island vs. UC Davis: Rhode Island goes on the road to UC Davis. Article predicts a UC Davis victory 35-31.

The playoffs promise intense competition and potential upsets. Football fans can follow the action and find more information on HERO Sports.

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