Last Saturday night was a programming first for ESPN. A regular season game between two FCS schools, Eastern Washington and Montana, was broadcast on ESPN2 in prime time. Likely this was a byproduct of a spectacular September for the Big Sky, where the conference could boast of 4 FBS scalps (ranked Washington, Arizona, UNLV and Tulsa).
Based on the thriller, ESPN should offer more FCS broadcasts. Eastern Washington survived, 34-28, but only after a pass in the end zone was batted away on the game’s final play.
Vibrant would be a vast understatement for all aspects associated with one of the very best games of the year. Eastern Washington’s red turf, dubbed the “Inferno”, does make one feel that they are at the Gates of Hell. The nation got to see EWU’s stellar QB, Eric Barriere, who once again threw for over 400 yards. The winner of this game would be in line to receive a top seed in the FCS playoffs.
Fortunately, ESPN+ does offer a lot of FCS telecasts. There are excellent FCS tilts most weekends. You could do lots worse than to watch North Dakota State vs Northern Iowa and/or South Dakota State vs Southern Illinois.
Don’t feel that you are slumming by enjoying FCS football! Stream away!!