The FBS finally implemented a playoff system to determine its national champion after years of outcry, but a postseason tournament is nothing new for the FCS.
This year’s installment is down to eight teams following Saturday’s action. Here is a look at the second-round results and the updated bracket heading into the quarterfinals:
| Matchup | Next opponent |
| North Dakota State 37, Montana 6 | Northern Iowa |
| Northern Iowa 29, Portland State 17 | North Dakota State |
| Jacksonville State 41, Chattanooga 35 | Charleston Southern |
| Charleston Southern 14, Citadel 6 | Jacksonville State |
| Colgate 44, James Madison 38 | Sam Houston State |
| Sam Houston State 34, McNeese State 29 | Colgate |
| Richmond 48, William & Mary 13 | Illinois State |
| Illinois State 36, Western Illinois 19 | Richmond |
North Dakota State Routs Montana, 37-6
Coming off a first-round bye, North Dakota State began its quest for a fifth straight FCS title with a convincing 37-6 win over Montana, one of just two teams that defeated the Bison in the regular season.