Division I FBS Independents Logo PNG
Division I FBS Independents refers to college football teams not affiliated with an NCAA conference, managed by the NCAA and owned by respective universities. These teams, like Notre Dame, UConn, and UMass, schedule games independently. They operate across the U.S., from Indiana to Connecticut and Massachusetts. As of March 30, 2025, only three remain, with UMass set to join the Mid-American Conference in July 2025, reducing the count further.
Meaning and history
Division I FBS Independents is a collegiate athletic conference in the United States. It was established by several universities seeking independence from traditional conferences. Founded in 1978, the Division I FBS Independents provide a platform for member institutions to compete at the highest level of college football.
Over the years, the Division I FBS Independents have achieved notable accomplishments. Their teams have participated in prestigious bowl games and have produced exceptional players who have gone on to succeed at the professional level. With a commitment to excellence, the conference has garnered recognition for its competitive spirit and dedication to the sport.
Currently, the Division I FBS Independents continue to thrive in the world of college football. Their member institutions are recognized for their athletic programs, attracting top talent and showcasing their skills on a national stage. As an independent conference, they navigate the competitive landscape, maintaining their position as formidable contenders in the realm of collegiate sports.
What is Division I FBS Independents?
Division I FBS Independents is a category in college athletics in the United States. It refers to schools that compete at the highest level of collegiate sports but are not affiliated with any specific athletic conference. These schools operate independently and schedule games against teams from various conferences.
1978 – Today
The current Division I FBS Independents logo is simple yet meaningful. The largest element of the design is a shield shape that is also part of a football (you can guess it from the seam and the line on its end.
You can see the large abbreviation “FBS” on the top and a banner housing the lettering “Independents” below.
The simplistic palette (dark blue on the white background) makes it easier to grasp the meaning of the design.