Get ready for an exciting development in the world of college football! The FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) is about to shake things up with a bold move.
Last year, a significant change was approved by the FCS Oversight Committee and Division I Council. They greenlit a recommendation that allows the FCS to kick off their season fully and officially during Week 0. This means an annual 12-game regular season can now start a week earlier than most FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) teams.
Previously, FCS teams had to obtain waivers to play during Week 0, but now, they're free to begin their season without any such restrictions. Interestingly, FBS teams still need waivers, but it's highly likely that even they will eventually follow suit and start their full season during what is currently Week 0, effectively making it the new Week 1.
The 2026 season promises to be even more intriguing. Not only will the FCS start a week before most FBS teams, but they're also permitted to begin their season on the Thursday of Week 0. While the majority of FBS teams will initiate their campaigns on Saturday, September 5, some FCS teams will have already started theirs nine days earlier on Thursday, August 27. This early start could create opportunities for more nationally televised games, bringing the FCS action to a wider audience.
Currently, the FBS has five games scheduled for Week 0 (Saturday, August 29), whereas the FCS has an impressive 11 games lined up for Thursday, August 27, three games for Friday, August 28, and over 40 games for Saturday, August 29. Admittedly, the FCS Week 0 schedule might not be the most star-studded, but it's a significant improvement compared to previous seasons, and we'll get to enjoy more FCS action on our screens sooner.
You can find the complete FCS Week 0 schedule here.
And this is the part most people miss: the potential impact on national TV coverage. With the FCS starting earlier, there's a real opportunity for more games to be broadcast, giving these teams a chance to showcase their talent on a bigger stage.
But here's where it gets controversial: do you think this early start gives the FCS an unfair advantage? Or is it a well-deserved opportunity to shine? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! We'd love to hear your opinions on this exciting development in the world of college football.
