What's Happening?
North Dakota State University (NDSU) is set to join the Mountain West Conference in 2026, transitioning from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). This move, reported by ESPN's Pete Thamel, involves NDSU paying nearly $12 million to join the conference and an additional $5 million to the NCAA for the transition. The Bison, known for their dominance in FCS with 10 championships in the last 15 years, will become part of a conference that has recently undergone significant changes due to NCAA realignment.
Why It's Important?
NDSU's move to the Mountain West Conference represents a significant shift in college football dynamics, as the team transitions to a higher level of competition. This change is expected to enhance
the conference's competitiveness, especially after losing several teams to the Pac-12. For NDSU, joining the FBS offers new opportunities for growth, exposure, and recruitment, potentially elevating the program's national profile. However, the transition also comes with challenges, such as the NCAA's two-year ineligibility rule for bowl games and conference championships, which could impact the team's immediate competitive prospects.
What's Next?
The official announcement of NDSU's move is expected soon, with the transition set to take effect in the 2026 season. The team will need to prepare for the increased competition level in the FBS, which may involve strategic adjustments and recruitment efforts. The Mountain West Conference will also continue to adapt to its new composition, aiming to maintain its status and competitiveness within college football. Observers will be watching how NDSU navigates the transition and how it impacts the broader landscape of college athletics.
