What's Happening?
North Dakota State University (NDSU) has finalized an agreement to join the Mountain West Conference for football starting in 2026. This move marks a significant transition for NDSU, which has been a dominant force in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), winning 10 of the last 15 national championships. The school will pay nearly $12 million to join the conference, in addition to a $5 million fee to the NCAA for moving to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The Mountain West Conference, which is rebuilding after losing several teams to the Pac-12, will now include NDSU alongside Northern Illinois, UTEP, Air Force, Hawai'i, Nevada, New Mexico, San Jose State, UNLV, and Wyoming.
Why It's Important?
The inclusion of NDSU in the Mountain West Conference is
a strategic move to bolster the conference's competitiveness and financial stability. NDSU's strong football program is expected to enhance the conference's profile and attract more viewership and sponsorships. This transition also reflects broader trends in college athletics, where conferences are realigning to strengthen their positions amid increasing competition for talent and revenue. For NDSU, moving to the FBS level offers new opportunities for growth and exposure, potentially increasing its appeal to recruits and fans.
What's Next?
The transition will require significant logistical planning, including scheduling and integrating NDSU into the Mountain West's existing framework. The move is expected to be officially announced soon, and preparations will begin to ensure a smooth transition by the 2026 season. Stakeholders, including coaches, players, and fans, will be closely watching how NDSU adapts to the higher level of competition in the FBS.
