North Dakota State University Elevates Football Program
In a significant move announced Monday, North Dakota State University (NDSU) will elevate its football program to compete at the FBS level, joining the Mountain West Conference starting July 1. This transition marks a new chapter for the Bison, who have established themselves as a formidable presence in the FCS, having claimed 10 out of the last 15 national championships in that division.
Joining the Mountain West Conference
The decision to join the Mountain West aligns with the developments in the conference, which will consist of 10 teams for football beginning in 2026. NDSU’s impressive record includes a 12-1 finish in 2025, where their playoff run was halted in a narrow defeat against Illinois State, the eventual national runner-up.
Mountain West Commissioner Gloria Nevarez praised NDSU for its commitment to excellence, stating that the Bison’s championship mentality and vision for growth will not only strengthen the conference but also enhance the student-athlete experience across various facets, including academics and community engagement.
Challenges Ahead
This transition coincides with the departure of Northern Illinois from the Mid-American Conference, creating a dynamic shift in college football affiliations. In addition to NDSU, Texas-El Paso will become a full member starting in the 2026-27 academic year, while Hawaii continues its presence in football.
Despite the excitement of joining the Mountain West, NDSU faces certain restrictions: while they will compete in a full eight-game conference schedule, they will not qualify for the Mountain West championship game or the College Football Playoff until the 2028 season. Furthermore, their opportunity to participate in bowl games will depend on the availability of spots after other teams have qualified — similar to the situations faced by Delaware and Missouri State in 2025.
Continued Success in Other Sports
NDSU will continue to compete in the Summit League for its other sports, following a successful period in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC), where they secured 12 titles across 18 seasons. The MVFC has been recognized for its competitiveness, showcasing six teams in the FCS playoffs in 2025, and has a notable history of fierce rivalries, including the Dakota Marker Trophy battle against South Dakota State. This rivalry has witnessed NDSU leading the series 12-10 since both teams transitioned to Division I.
Financial Implications
As for the financial aspects of this move, reports suggest that NDSU is preparing to pay approximately $12 million in fees to join the Mountain West and another $5 million to the NCAA. This move highlights the evolving landscape of college athletics, where conference realignments are increasingly common, often resulting in legal disputes, notably over exit fees between competing conferences, such as the ongoing conflicts between the Mountain West and the restructured Pac-12.
Fans and stakeholders can anticipate an era of both challenges and opportunities as the Bison navigate this bold transition into the realm of FBS football.
