Key Highlights
- The 2025 FCS semifinal matchup between Villanova and Illinois State is set for Saturday, December 20 at 7:30 p.m. ET.
- Villanova has advanced the farthest of any non-top-eight seeded team since the bracket expanded to 16 seeds in 2024.
- Illinois State could be the second unseeded team to reach the national championship game, following Youngstown State’s achievement in 2016.
- The only previous meeting between these teams was a 19-17 victory by Illinois State in 1976.
Preview: Villanova vs. Illinois State – FCS Semifinals Matchup
In the highly anticipated 2025 FCS semifinals, Villanova and Illinois State are set to face off on Saturday, December 20 at Villanova Stadium in Villanova, PA. The game will air live on ABC with streaming available through WatchESPN.
Storylines and Players to Watch
Villanova’s Ja’briel Mace, the CAA Special Teams Player of the Year, is a key player to watch. Mace has been a standout in various roles for the team, making him an integral part of their success this season. Other notable players from Villanova include:
- OL Temi Ajirotutu
- LB Shane Hartzell
- WR Luke Colella
- DL Obinna Nwobodo
- S Christian Sapp
Illinois State’s Tye Niekamp, the MVFC Defensive Player of the Year, will be a crucial figure in this matchup. Other standout players from Illinois State include:
- WR Daniel Sobkowicz
- DB Shadwel Nkuba II
- LB Tye Niekamp (MVFC Freshman of the Year)
- OL Jake Pope
Season Performance Comparison
Based on this season’s results, Villanova and Illinois State stack up as follows:
| VILLANOVA (12-2) | Illinois State (11-4) | |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 6-3 (Conf) | No. 17 |
| FCS Coaches Rank | No. 17 | No. 9 |
| Points per Game | 30.6 | 25.9 |
| Yards per Game | 382.5 | 380.8 |
Past Semifinal Appearances
Villanova’s last semifinal appearance was in 2010, where they lost to Eastern Washington. On the other hand, Illinois State reached the semifinals in 2014 and made it all the way to the national title game.
The matchup between Villanova and Illinois State is a testament to the unpredictability of FCS football, as both teams have defied expectations this season. The game promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and determination, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcome on Saturday evening.