What's Happening?
North Dakota State University (NDSU), a dominant force in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), is set to join the Mountain West Conference as a football-only member starting in the 2026 season. This move marks a significant transition for NDSU as it steps up to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The decision involves a financial commitment, with NDSU required to pay $5 million to the NCAA for the transition to FBS and an additional $12 million to join the Mountain West Conference. The university's athletic director, Matt Larsen, and outgoing president, David Cook, have been vocal about their ambition to elevate the program to the FBS level. NDSU has a storied history in the FCS, having won 10 national championships since 2011, and holds
a 9-5 record against FBS teams, including victories over power conference programs.
Why It's Important?
The move to the Mountain West Conference and the FBS represents a strategic shift for North Dakota State, aiming to enhance its competitive standing and visibility in college football. This transition is significant for the Mountain West Conference as well, which is undergoing changes with several teams departing for the Pac-12. NDSU's entry could bolster the conference's competitiveness and appeal. For NDSU, the move offers the potential for increased revenue, recruitment opportunities, and national exposure. However, the transition comes with challenges, including a two-year period during which NDSU will be ineligible for the College Football Playoff and most bowl games, unless there are insufficient bowl-eligible teams.
What's Next?
As North Dakota State prepares for its transition to the FBS, the university will focus on meeting the competitive and administrative requirements of the Mountain West Conference. The team will aim to maintain its strong performance record while adapting to the higher level of competition. The transition period will be crucial for NDSU to establish itself within the FBS landscape. Stakeholders, including university officials and fans, will be closely monitoring the team's progress and the impact of this move on the university's athletic program.
