North Dakota State University (NDSU) is on the brink of a big transition that could really shake up college football. The Bison, who’ve been a dominant force in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), are deep in talks to join the Mountain West Conference as a football-only member.
If it happens, this move could bump NDSU up to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) as soon as this year. According to Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger, the deal might be finalized soon. It’s a pivotal moment for both the university and the Mountain West.
North Dakota State’s FCS Dominance
North Dakota State has been nothing short of a powerhouse in the FCS. The Bison have secured 10 championships at that level, most recently in 2024.
They pulled off nine FCS titles in 11 years, from 2011 to 2021. That’s the kind of run that puts them at the top of the list for an FBS move—let’s be honest, they’ve more than earned a shot to prove themselves at the next level.
Recent Playoff Performance
Still, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing lately. The Bison were upset in the second round of the most recent FCS playoffs by Illinois State, who then made it to the title game before losing to Montana State.
NDSU went into those playoffs with a perfect 12-0 record and the No. 1 seed. That says a lot about their strength and the kind of potential they bring if they do move up.
Mountain West Conference Dynamics
The Mountain West Conference itself is in the midst of some serious changes. Boise State, a major player in the league, just won the Mountain West championship by beating UNLV.
But here’s the twist—Boise State is set to leave for the Pac-12 next year, and they’re taking Utah State, Colorado State, Fresno State, and San Diego State with them. That’s a lot of turnover, and it leaves the Mountain West looking to fill some pretty big shoes.
New Members Joining the Mountain West
To fill the gaps, the Mountain West is bringing in some new faces. UTEP will join as a full member, and Northern Illinois is coming in for football only.
Adding North Dakota State as a football-only member is seen as a smart play to keep the conference competitive and interesting. It’s a bit of a chess move, really.
North Dakota State’s Record Against FBS Teams
North Dakota State’s got a reputation for taking down FBS teams. From 2010 to 2016, the Bison rattled off six straight wins over programs like Kansas, Minnesota, Colorado State, Kansas State, Iowa State, and Iowa.
Sure, they dropped their last two FBS games—against Arizona in 2022 and Colorado in 2024—but both were close calls. Since moving up from Division II in 2004, they’ve posted a solid 9-5 record against FBS opponents. Not too shabby.
Challenges and Opportunities
Jumping to the FBS is exciting, but it’s not without its challenges. Yahoo Sports reports that Mountain West presidents have agreed to invite NDSU, but the entrance fee is pretty steep.
Negotiations are still ongoing. That financial hurdle seems to be one of the last things standing in the way.
Implications for College Football
If North Dakota State joins the FBS and the Mountain West, it could have a pretty big impact on college football as a whole. It’d raise NDSU’s profile and add some spice to the Mountain West.
For NDSU, this is a shot to compete at a higher level and get more attention from recruits, fans, and the media. It’s a big leap, and honestly, it’s about time they got the chance.
Future Prospects
If this deal actually goes through, North Dakota State will join the Mountain West as a football-only member starting this season.
That’s a big step. It could open up new opportunities for the Bison and maybe even shake things up for the conference, too.
With NDSU on the brink of this move, everyone’s wondering how they’ll handle the jump and what their first season in the FBS will look like.
For more on how this might play out, check out the full report on Sports Illustrated.
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