FCS Football: Week 0 Preview - Early Start, More Games, and TV Opportunities (2026)

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.

In a groundbreaking decision, the FCS Oversight Committee and Division I Council have given the green light for a full 12-game regular season to kick off in Week 0. This means that, starting in 2026, the FCS will be the first subdivision to begin its season, with some teams even starting as early as Thursday of Week 0!

But here's where it gets controversial... While the FCS teams can now begin their season without any waivers, the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) teams still need that extra permission. However, it's highly likely that the FBS will soon follow suit, making Week 0 the new Week 1 for everyone.

Imagine this: while most FBS teams are gearing up for their season opener on September 5th, some FCS teams will already be nine days into their season, having started on August 27th! This early start could create some fantastic opportunities for national TV games, giving the FCS some much-deserved spotlight.

Currently, the FBS has a modest five games scheduled for Week 0 (August 29th), but the FCS is already planning an impressive lineup. With 11 games on Thursday, August 27th, three on Friday, August 28th, and over 40 on Saturday, August 29th, the FCS is set to dominate our screens with a full slate of action.

While the games might not be the biggest names on the block, this early start is a game-changer for FCS fans. It's an opportunity to catch some early-season excitement and see how these teams stack up.

So, are you ready to dive into the world of FCS football? The schedule is out, and it's time to mark your calendars! But here's the part most people miss: this decision could spark a debate about the fairness of scheduling and the potential impact on player health and preparation. What do you think? Should all subdivisions start their seasons simultaneously, or is this early start an exciting innovation? Let's discuss in the comments and share our thoughts on this controversial move!

FCS Football: Week 0 Preview - Early Start, More Games, and TV Opportunities (2026)
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