Is Texas State FBS Or FCS? Unpacking The Football Hierarchy

Dr. Olaf Gutkowski IV 12 May 2025

Ever wondered about the differences between FBS and FCS in college football? Well, buckle up because we’re diving headfirst into the world of Texas State football and figuring out exactly where they fit in this competitive landscape. If you’re a fan of college sports, understanding these distinctions is crucial. Texas State football isn’t just about touchdowns and tailgating; it’s part of a broader structure that defines the college football hierarchy. So, is Texas State FBS or FCS? Let’s find out!

College football is more than just a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings together millions of fans every season. But beneath the surface lies a complex system that separates teams into different categories based on size, funding, and competition level. One of those categories is the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision), while another is the FCS (Football Championship Subdivision). For Texas State, the answer isn’t always straightforward, but we’ll break it down step by step.

Whether you’re a die-hard Bobcat supporter or just curious about how college football works, this article will give you all the details you need. We’ll explore the history of Texas State football, their current status, and why knowing whether they’re FBS or FCS matters so much. Stick around because there’s a lot to unpack here, and trust me, it’s gonna be good!

The History of Texas State Football
What’s the Difference Between FBS and FCS?
Is Texas State FBS or FCS?
Benefits of Being in FBS
Challenges of Staying in FCS
Key Stats and Numbers
Transitioning Between Divisions
Impact on the Fan Base
Recruiting Implications
The Future of Texas State Football

The History of Texas State Football

Before we dive into whether Texas State is FBS or FCS, let’s take a quick trip back in time to understand the roots of this program. Texas State University, located in San Marcos, has a rich athletic tradition that dates back to 1923 when it was known as Southwest Texas State Teachers College. Back then, football wasn’t the powerhouse it is today, but it laid the foundation for what would become one of the most exciting programs in college sports.

In 2001, Texas State made the leap to Division I-AA (now FCS) after years of competing in Division I-AA. This move was a game-changer for the university, allowing them to compete at a higher level and attract more talent. Then, in 2012, the Bobcats joined the Sun Belt Conference, marking their transition to the FBS. That’s right—Texas State is officially an FBS team now, but we’ll get into the specifics later.

Key Milestones in Texas State Football History

1923 – The first football team is formed.
2001 – Moves to Division I-AA (FCS).
2012 – Joins the Sun Belt Conference in FBS.
2013 – Wins their first-ever bowl game in the New Mexico Bowl.

What’s the Difference Between FBS and FCS?

Now that we’ve covered the basics of Texas State’s journey, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: what exactly is the difference between FBS and FCS? Simply put, these are two subdivisions within NCAA Division I football, and they represent different levels of competition. The FBS is the top tier, featuring powerhouse programs like Alabama, Ohio State, and Clemson. These schools typically have larger budgets, bigger stadiums, and more resources.

On the other hand, FCS schools tend to be smaller, with fewer resources and a focus on building programs over time. They compete in the NCAA Division I Football Championship, which culminates in a playoff system rather than the bowl games seen in the FBS. Think of it like this: FBS is where the big dogs play, while FCS is where up-and-coming programs can showcase their talent.

Key Differences Between FBS and FCS

Recruiting: FBS schools can offer full scholarships, while FCS schools have limited scholarship opportunities.
Budget: FBS programs have significantly larger budgets, often in the tens of millions.
Competition: FBS teams compete in bowl games, while FCS teams participate in playoffs.

Is Texas State FBS or FCS?

Alright, here’s the million-dollar question: is Texas State FBS or FCS? The answer is clear—Texas State is part of the FBS, competing in the Sun Belt Conference. They made the jump from FCS to FBS in 2012, and since then, they’ve been working hard to establish themselves as a competitive program. While they may not be a national powerhouse yet, the Bobcats have shown flashes of brilliance and are slowly climbing the ranks.

Being in the FBS comes with its own set of challenges, though. For starters, Texas State has to compete against some of the best teams in the country, which can be tough for a program that’s still finding its footing. However, the rewards are worth it—more exposure, bigger budgets, and the chance to play in prestigious bowl games.

Why Does It Matter?

Understanding whether Texas State is FBS or FCS is important for several reasons. First, it affects recruiting—top high school players are more likely to choose FBS programs because of the exposure and scholarship opportunities. Second, it impacts the fan base—fans want to see their team compete at the highest level, and FBS gives them that chance. Finally, it influences the university’s reputation—being part of the FBS can boost the school’s profile nationwide.

Benefits of Being in FBS

So, what are the perks of being in the FBS? For starters, there’s the money. FBS programs receive significant financial support from TV deals, sponsorships, and ticket sales. This allows them to invest in top-tier facilities, coaching staff, and equipment, giving their players the best chance to succeed. Additionally, FBS teams get to compete in bowl games, which are some of the most-watched events in sports.

Another benefit is exposure. Being in the FBS means your team is on national TV more often, which can help attract recruits and boost alumni donations. It also gives the university a chance to showcase its brand to a wider audience, which can lead to increased enrollment and other opportunities.

Top Benefits of FBS Membership

Increased funding for athletic programs.
More exposure through national TV broadcasts.
Access to prestigious bowl games.

Challenges of Staying in FCS

While the FCS may not have the same level of competition as the FBS, it comes with its own set of challenges. For one, FCS programs often struggle with funding, which can limit their ability to compete with larger schools. They also face difficulties in recruiting top talent, as many players prefer the exposure and opportunities offered by FBS programs.

That being said, staying in the FCS can be a strategic move for some schools. It allows them to focus on building strong programs over time, without the pressure of competing against the biggest names in college football. Plus, the playoff system in FCS gives smaller schools a chance to make noise on the national stage.

Key Challenges of FCS Programs

Limited financial resources compared to FBS schools.
Difficulty in recruiting top-tier talent.
Less exposure on national TV.

Key Stats and Numbers

Let’s talk numbers. As of the 2023 season, Texas State has an overall record of 84-103 in FBS competition. While that may not sound impressive, it’s important to remember that the Bobcats are still relatively new to this level of play. They’ve had some standout performances, including their historic win in the 2013 New Mexico Bowl.

In terms of attendance, Texas State draws an average of around 20,000 fans per game, which is respectable for a mid-major program. Their stadium, Bobcat Stadium, has a capacity of just under 30,000, providing a lively atmosphere for home games. Financially, the athletic department brings in around $20 million annually, a significant increase from their FCS days.

Interesting Stats About Texas State Football

Average attendance: 20,000 fans per game.
Stadium capacity: 29,500.
Annual athletic budget: $20 million.

Transitioning Between Divisions

Moving between FBS and FCS isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Schools have to carefully consider the financial implications, infrastructure needs, and long-term goals before making such a move. For Texas State, the decision to join the FBS was a calculated risk that has paid off in many ways. However, not all schools are ready for the leap.

When transitioning to the FBS, schools need to ensure they have the resources to compete at that level. This includes upgrading facilities, hiring experienced coaches, and securing enough funding to sustain the program. It’s not an easy process, but for those who succeed, the rewards can be substantial.

Steps in Transitioning to FBS

Assess financial readiness.
Upgrade facilities and infrastructure.
Secure conference affiliation.

Impact on the Fan Base

The move to the FBS has had a significant impact on Texas State’s fan base. Fans are more engaged than ever, and attendance at games has steadily increased over the years. Social media has also played a big role in connecting fans with the team, allowing them to stay updated on player news, game highlights, and more.

That being said, there are still challenges to overcome. Some fans miss the old days of FCS competition, where the stakes felt lower and the games were more intimate. However, most agree that being in the FBS gives the program a chance to grow and succeed on a national level.

Recruiting Implications

Recruiting is a critical component of any successful college football program, and being in the FBS gives Texas State a leg up in this area. With more scholarship opportunities and better facilities, the Bobcats can attract top talent from across the country. They’ve already seen success in this area, landing several high-profile recruits in recent years.

However, recruiting isn’t just about offering scholarships—it’s about building relationships with players and their families. Texas State has done an excellent job of creating a welcoming environment for recruits, which has helped them stand out in a crowded field.

Recruiting Success Stories

Securing multiple four-star recruits in the last three years.
Building strong relationships with local high schools.
Offering comprehensive academic support for athletes.

The Future of Texas State Football

Looking ahead, the future is bright for Texas State football. With a solid foundation in place and a growing fan base, the Bobcats are poised to become a dominant force in the Sun Belt Conference. They’ve already shown they can compete with some of the best teams in the country, and with continued investment in the program, the sky’s the limit.

Of course, challenges remain. The FBS is a highly competitive landscape, and Texas State will need to stay ahead of the curve to maintain their success. But with the right leadership, resources, and determination, there’s no reason they can’t achieve greatness.

What’s Next for Texas State?

Expect to see continued growth in recruiting, attendance, and overall program success. The university is committed to investing in its athletic programs, and that commitment will pay dividends in the years to come. Whether it’s another bowl game victory or a breakthrough season, Texas State fans have plenty to look forward to.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Texas State is indeed part of the FBS, competing in the Sun Belt

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