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Abstract

In 2009, ninety-one college football games featured smaller FCS teams playing larger Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams. This included seven matchups where Football Champion Subdivision (FCS) schools played preseason Top 25 teams (ESPN, 2009). This study investigated both the positive and negative repercussions of the big money game on the little guy, the FCS school, in college football. Specifically, the study analyzed those factors that influenced FCS schools to schedule and play FBS football programs in 2009. The influencers identified included the lure of a big money payout, the opportunity of a lifetime (to play a top-ranked team), and the availability to meet scheduling needs. The study also investigated the detracting forces FCS schools’ athletic administrators faced when deciding to schedule the games. These detractors were identified as the threat of playing a nationally-ranked opponent, the liklihood of a lopsided loss that could affect team and booster morale for the rest of the season, and the threat of injuries. Finally, the study investigated the final outcomes FCS schools experienced after playing the games. These included financial stability, national exposure, and fundraising. While it was overly-apparent that money was the driving force behind the games, it also became clear that each FCS university reaped benefits that extended beyond their athletic program’s fiscal well- being.

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