The term "football championship subdivision" refers to a classification within the sport of American college football, specifically used in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
In the NCAA, college football is divided into several subdivisions or levels based on the size and resources of the participating schools. The football championship subdivision (FCS) is one such level, which sits below the higher-tiered football bowl subdivision (FBS) in terms of its resources and level of competition.
The FCS consists of colleges and universities that generally have smaller enrollments, smaller budgets, and less funding for their football programs than those in the FBS. These FCS schools often compete in smaller conferences or as independents.
The FCS is also commonly referred to as "Division I-AA" since it was previously known by this name before the NCAA reclassified it in 2006. The FCS is home to numerous football programs that are highly competitive and well-regarded, with teams showcasing great skill, talent, and a strong commitment to the sport.
The primary highlight of the FCS is its national championship tournament known as the FCS Playoffs, which determines the national champion among participating teams. The tournament is typically held at the end of the regular season and involves multiple rounds of single-elimination games.
Overall, the football championship subdivision serves as a crucial category within American college football, providing opportunities for smaller schools to compete and display their football prowess at a high level, while offering an avenue for their student-athletes to pursue their passion for the sport.
