The return of EA Sports’ College Football series has been a long time coming. Fans have been buzzing, especially with North Dakota State University (NDSU) showing up in College Football 27.
Since moving up to the FBS and joining the Mountain West Conference, the Bison are finally part of the game. It feels like a new era for both fans and players—there’s just something different about seeing your team in the official lineup.
The Bison’s Digital Debut in College Football 27
When EA Sports brought back its College Football series in 2024, FCS teams were missing. NDSU’s jump to the FBS and their Mountain West invite changed that story.
Now, you can pick the Bison in College Football 27, with their stadium (well, sort of), real coaches, and actual players. For NDSU supporters, it’s a big deal—maybe bigger than they’d admit out loud.
What Players Can Expect
Each player on the team gets $1,500 and a free copy of the game. Not bad, right?
For many young athletes, seeing themselves as a playable character is surreal. Abraham Myers, a tight end from Sioux Falls Washington High School, is in the game now, and honestly, who wouldn’t be excited by that?
Game Features and Authenticity
The Fargodome is in the game, but it’s called *North Dakota State Stadium*. That’s a little odd, but it’s there.
The Bison mascot is included, and Tim Polasek is too, though his in-game face could use a touch-up. Still, the details are pretty solid for Bison fans who’ve waited for this.
Customization and Creativity
The *Create a Team* engine is still here, letting players design whatever team they dream up. People love making high school squads or totally made-up colleges.
But with NDSU officially in the mix, fans don’t have to cobble together a homemade Bison team anymore. That’s a relief, honestly.
Gameplay Experience
Fire up the game and you can jump right into an NDSU matchup. Key players like Nathan Hayes, DJ Scott, and Jackson Williams are all there.
I tried a simulated game—Bison vs. New Mexico in the Fargodome. The gameplay felt surprisingly real, and the Bison’s strengths came through.
Memorable Matchups
You can line up dream games and wild matchups. Want to bring Nebraska into the Dome? Go for it.
Or maybe you’d rather see the Bison take on Michigan at the Big House. The game lets you play out those “what if” scenarios, and it’s hard not to get a little carried away.
Team Ratings and Player Highlights
EA Sports gave the Bison an overall team rating of 75. That’s better than a lot of G6 teams, which feels about right.
James Madison sits at 77. Here’s how some Mountain West teams stack up:
- Air Force: 74
- Hawaii: 76
- Nevada: 73
- New Mexico: 76
- Northern Illinois: 70
- San Jose State: 72
- UNLV: 78
- UTEP: 72
- Wyoming: 73
Top-Rated NDSU Players
Here’s a quick look at some of the Bison’s top players in the game:
- Griffin Empey (LG): 87
- DJ Scott (RB): 83
- Keenan Wilson (DT): 80
- Darius Glance (SS): 79
- Myles Mitchell (RB): 78
- Josh Magin (RT): 78
- Donovan Woolen (LB): 78
- Keith Williams (LB): 78
- Logan Larson (DT): 77
- Jackson Williams (WR): 76
- Matthew Stenbroten (DE): 76
- Zach Vanderpool (DT): 76
- Alijah Wayne (DT): 76
- Jaylin Crumby (FS): 75
- Kelton McCaslin (DE): 75
- Reis Kessel (TE): 75
- Nathan Hayes (QB): 74
- Nate Tastad (RG): 74
- Taylen Eady (FS): 73
- Ryan Babatz (LT): 73
- Alex Jenkins (LT): 73
- DJ Volts (CB): 72
- Mekhi Collins (WR): 71
- Jack Liwienski (OG): 71
- EJ Davis (CB): 71
- Will Steil (FS): 70
- Drew Klein (K): 70
Future Prospects and Predictions
NDSU’s place in College Football 27 has people talking about what’s next for the program. Some think the Bison could snag a G6 playoff spot.
Others figure they’ll at least take the Mountain West Conference. With a 75 rating, there’s definitely room for optimism—though, as always, you never really know until the games are played.
Looking Ahead
Fans and players are still diving into the game, and honestly, the buzz about NDSU’s inclusion just keeps picking up. Playing as the Bison in such a detailed, immersive setting? That’s something a lot of folks have been waiting for.
It’s a fresh way to experience NDSU football. Whether you’ve been cheering for years or you’re just getting into it, College Football 27 really does give you something new.
Curious for more details or want the whole story? Check out North Dakota State looks awesome on College Football 27.
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