FCS Polls Week 1 SDSU has a very good defense and deserves no. 1. It is clear to me to advance up the polls and advance in potential playoffs that a string defense is a must. This has held EWU back. They got worn down and blown out at NDSU last year and I’m watching their game against UNLV their defense will be problematic again. If Northern Iowa had an offense they would have won last week. They are always a contender due to their stout defense and good coaching. I think the Ags have shored up their defense (spring and fall) with more bulk in the middle and more depth. In my mind, this is the key as a good defense will most always keep you in the game. That and special teams (witness Tulsa) can be difference makers - without those two aspects, you are in big trouble against the better teams.