Fargo, N.D. – After two decades of dominance in the Football Championship Subdivision, North Dakota State University is preparing to step onto the highest tier of college football. The Bison will host Jacksonville State on Saturday for their inaugural Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) game, marking the start of a new era for the program and the local community.
From record‑setting success to a new challenge
During its 20‑year stay in the Championship Subdivision, the Bison captured ten national titles, a feat that has rarely been matched at any level of college football. The program’s success was highlighted by a perfect regular‑season record and a top seed in the most recent FCS playoffs, before a narrow one‑point loss to Illinois State at the Fargodome ended the run.
Athletic director Matt Larsen said the loss underscored the need for a fresh challenge. “We’ve got to get this done,” he recalled, noting that the fan base, while passionate, was eager for a higher level of competition.
Joining the Mountain West
North Dakota State’s move to the FBS also brings a conference affiliation. The Bison will become members of the Mountain West Conference, debuting on Sept. 12 at Air Force. The conference realignment also includes Sacramento State, another program making the jump this season.
Linebacker Donovan Woolen expressed excitement about testing the team against stronger opponents. “To play better games against better competition is going to be a lot more fun,” he said.
Financial and logistical considerations
The transition required a $5 million reclassification fee to the NCAA and a $12.5 million entry fee to the Mountain West, both funded privately. The football program added 22 scholarships, and the operating budget has roughly doubled from the 2025 level of about $8 million.
Donors have played a crucial role. In 2021, alumnus Tom Blattner and his wife contributed $15 million toward a $54 million indoor practice facility that serves multiple sports during the harsh winter months.
Impact on the community
Fargo, a growing city of more than 125,000 residents, has embraced the Bison as a regional draw. The team’s success has fostered a strong network of supporters, and the upcoming FBS schedule includes road trips to Northern California, Las Vegas, and even Honolulu.
Former Bison player and Seattle Seahawks guard Grey Zabel praised the university’s support system, noting the community, coaching staff, and facilities are all in place for the next level of competition.
Looking ahead
While the Bison may no longer dominate national championships as they did in the FCS, the move positions them to compete for conference titles within the Mountain West and the broader Group of Six conferences that feed into the College Football Playoff.
Coach Tim Polasek described the decision as “the right time” and an opportunity the program could not pass up. With the community’s excitement palpable, the Bison are poised to write the next chapter of their storied football history.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
