North Dakota State (NDSU) football, renowned for its impressive record of 10 national titles in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), is embarking on a significant journey. The upcoming 2026 college football season will mark their debut in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), as they integrate into the Mountain West Conference (MWC). This transition, announced in February, represents a strategic move to elevate the university's athletic and academic profile, building on its rich legacy of success and an astounding 811-385-34 overall record.
North Dakota State Bison Ascend to FBS, Join Mountain West Conference
In a landmark decision announced in February, North Dakota State University accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West Conference, initiating their Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) journey in the 2026 college football season. This momentous step follows a dominant tenure in the FCS, where the Bison accumulated 10 national championships, including an unprecedented five consecutive titles between 2011 and 2015. The university's overall football record stands at an impressive 811-385-34, boasting a .673 winning percentage that positions them among the elite programs in Division 1, surpassed only by Oklahoma.
Former NDSU President David Cook, now affiliated with Iowa State, emphasized the strategic foresight behind this move. He articulated that the decision reflects a confidence in the university's established programs and personnel, aiming to broaden NDSU's national footprint and create novel avenues for its students and the community, while steadfastly adhering to its foundational mission. Matt Larsen, NDSU's Director of Athletics, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the football program's consistent triumphs and the exceptional leadership of its student-athletes and coaches have rightfully earned this opportunity. The transition promises not only to elevate the team's competitive stage but also to offer fans the excitement of hosting FBS opponents and to expand the Bison's national visibility through enhanced television coverage.
As NDSU prepares to face new adversaries like UNLV, New Mexico, Air Force, Wyoming, Hawai'i, and Nevada within the MWC, the football community is keenly observing how they will perform in their inaugural FBS season. Despite the departure of starting quarterback Cole Payton to the NFL, the Bison are poised for a smooth transition. Senior Nathan Hayes is slated to take over the quarterback role, supported by an offensive line that retains three starters and welcomes Kansas transfer Kene Anene at right tackle. Key positions on the offensive line, such as left tackle, are being closely watched, with promising talents like sophomore Ryan Babatz and freshman Gavin Wang. The team's running back corps will rely on DJ Scott, who rushed for 502 yards last season, alongside emerging talents Myles Mitchell and Braylon Toliver. Tight end Reis Kessel, with an impressive 22.3 yards per reception, and wide receiver Jackson Williams, are set to lead the receiving efforts.
Defensively, while NDSU saw the departure of linebacker Nathaniel Staehling to Michigan, the return of All-MVFC linebacker Donovan Woolen is crucial for fortifying the team's second level. The secondary benefits from the experience of safeties Darius Givance, Taylen Eady, and Jaylin Crumbly, augmented by the arrival of Division 2 transfers EJ Davis and DJ Voltz to bolster the cornerback positions. With a historical 9-5 record against FBS schools and the recent NCAA decision to lift the two-year postseason ban for transitioning teams, there is a strong possibility of NDSU participating in a bowl game in their very first FBS season. Projections from publications like Athlon Sports and The Sporting News place NDSU favorably within the MWC, suggesting a top-four finish and even a bowl game appearance. Conference insiders also believe the Bison are well-equipped for the transition, possessing a robust talent pool and a proven development system. NDSU's FBS journey kicks off on August 29 against Jacksonville State, with their first conference game scheduled for September 12 against Air Force.
The move of North Dakota State to the FBS and the Mountain West Conference is more than just a change in competitive divisions; it's a testament to sustained excellence and a strategic vision for growth. It highlights the potential for successful programs at lower divisions to ascend and compete at the highest levels of college football. This transition offers valuable lessons on ambition, adaptation, and the belief in one's capabilities, demonstrating that a strong foundation and a clear purpose can pave the way for new opportunities and expanded influence. NDSU's journey will undoubtedly inspire other programs and serve as a compelling narrative of athletic evolution.
