(Stats Perform) - Finding the next best thing is an integral part of FCS college football, whether it be a program undercovering a hidden gem in recruiting or an NFL team landing an overlooked value from the lower half of Division I.

All levels also can look to the FCS for coaching prospects - not just the head coaches who are in demand, but assistant coaches who are primed for bigger, higher-paying opportunities.

The days of stale coaching hires appear to be dying. As one head coach of a recent FCS quarterfinalist said, "I think people are getting smarter about it."