What's Happening?
North Dakota State University (NDSU) has reached an agreement to join the Mountain West Conference as a football-only member starting in 2026. This move marks a significant transition for NDSU from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The university will pay approximately $12 million to join the conference and an additional $5 million to the NCAA for the transition. The Mountain West Conference, which has recently lost several teams to the Pac-12, will benefit from NDSU's inclusion, bringing its total football teams to ten. NDSU has been a dominant force in FCS, winning 10 of the last 15 national championships.
Why It's Important?
The inclusion of North Dakota State in the Mountain West Conference is a strategic move
to bolster the conference's competitiveness and financial stability following the departure of key teams to the Pac-12. For NDSU, this transition to FBS represents an opportunity to compete at a higher level and gain greater exposure. The move is also significant for the NCAA's ongoing realignment, as it reflects the shifting dynamics and competitive landscape of college football. The financial implications are substantial, with NDSU investing heavily to make this transition, which could lead to increased revenue from media rights and sponsorships.
What's Next?
As NDSU prepares for its transition to the Mountain West Conference, the university will need to adjust its football schedule and logistics to align with FBS requirements. The conference will also work on integrating NDSU into its existing framework, ensuring a smooth transition. Stakeholders, including other conference members and the NCAA, will likely monitor the impact of this move on competitive balance and financial outcomes. Additionally, NDSU's performance in the FBS will be closely watched, as it could influence future realignment decisions and the university's long-term strategy in collegiate athletics.
