FCS playoff bracket 2012: Semifinal matchups set after exciting weekend

The semifinals are set following this weekend's four quarterfinal contests, and three of the top five teams remain at the 2012 FCS Tournament.

No. 1 North Dakota State will face No. 5 Georgia Southern, while on the other side of the bracket, Sam Houston State will battle No. 2 Eastern Washington.

North Dakota State advanced by defeating Wofford, 14-7, in the quarterfinal round. A strong defensive effort, highlighted by two takeaways and a blocked field goal, held Wofford to zero offensive points. Brock Jensen, Sam Ojuri and John Crockett rushed for a combined 167 and one touchdown to lead the Bison to victory.

Georgia Southern earned the right to face the tournament's top team by defeating Central Arkansas, 24-16. Quarterback Jerick McKinnon ran for 316 yards and tallied over 400 yards of total offense and three touchdowns in the win.

Sam Houston State jumped out to a 20-3 lead at halftime over No. 3 Montana State and coasted to an easy 34-16 win. Quarterback Brian Bell threw for 254 yards and three touchdowns and Tim Flanders led the rushing attack with 106 yards.

Eastern Washington outlasted Illinois State in a shootout, 51-35. The Eagles, holding only a seven point lead at halftime, scored two quick touchdowns to open the second half and held on against the Redbirds to claim their spot in the FCS semifinals. Quarterback Kyle Padron threw for 358 yards and six touchdowns in the victory.

The two semifinal matchups will take place next weekend with the championship scheduled for Jan. 5 in Frisco Texas.

Visit the FCS Tournaments' official site to see the full bracket.