FCS Football Central previews the biggest Week 1 FCS football matchups, including the Orange Blossom Classic and rematch between Villanova and Youngstown State
The first Top 25 FCS matchup of the season will kick off on Thursday. Youngstown State aims to avenge last season's FCS Playoff loss to Villanova. The Wildcats eliminated the Penguins, 45-28, in the second round of the FCS Playoffs in 2023.
Youngstown State has the talent for another run to the postseason but has too many question marks to be confident in an upset over one of the most talented teams at the FCS level. Watkins will be the x-factor in this game, and Villanova's defense will make enough plays to earn a huge ranked win for their postseason resume.5 p.m. CT
Quarterback Eric Phoenix will also make his first start for the Bulldogs after spending one season at Murray State. He helped lead Benedict to back-to-back SIAC titles and earned All-Conference honors in 2022. Holy Cross will be led by All-American running back Jordan Fuller, who holds the career record for rushing touchdowns . The Crusaders will need new faces to emerge at wide receiver but could rely on two-time All-Conference selection Justin Shorter to lead the receiving core. The defense only returns five starters, but expect a breakout season from Freshman All-American William Robinson and linebacker Frankie Monte.
Regardless of the starting quarterback, the Grizzlies have one of the deepest wide receiver cores in the nation. Junior Bergen, Keelan White, and Aaron Fontes combined for over 2,000 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns in 2023. Eli Gillman leads the rushing attack after winning the Jerry Rice Award last season.
North Carolina Central will have a new quarterback for the first time since 2018 as Walker Harris steps into the QB1 role. Harris started one game last season, recording 263 passing yards and five touchdowns against Mississippi Valley State. Harris is surrounded by plenty of experience, including Joaquin Davis, Quentin McCall, and running back J'Mari Taylor.
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