fbs

FBS stands for the Football Bowl Subdivision, the highest level of college football in the United States. It includes most NCAA Division I football programs within conferences and a small number of independent teams. FBS is distinct from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), whose teams compete in a playoff to determine its national champion.

History and championship: The subdivision was previously known as Division I-A before being renamed FBS in 2006. From 1998 to 2013, the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) attempted to determine a national champion among the top teams. Since the 2014 season, the College Football Playoff (CFP) has used a selection committee to choose four teams to compete in two semifinal games, followed by a championship game.

Membership and schedule: FBS schools total around 130 to 133 programs, spread across about 10 conferences, plus several independents. The regular season typically includes 12 games, with many conferences then holding a championship game. Postseason competition centers on the CFP and a collection of major bowls.

Scholarships and governance: FBS programs are permitted up to 85 football scholarships. The NCAA governs football rules generally, but FBS membership is defined by conference alignment and postseason eligibility. CFP rankings and bowls are determined by a selection committee and by conference commissioners’ oversight.

Other uses: FBS can also refer to fasting blood sugar, a medical measurement used to assess glucose levels after an overnight or extended fast.