Full Breakdown
North Dakota State's Transition to FBS: Implications for UND and Beyond
2/10/2026, 1:45:39 PM
North Dakota State's Move to the Mountain West Conference
On October 23, 2023, North Dakota State University (NDSU) announced its decision to transition from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) by joining the Mountain West Conference in 2026. This move is significant as it marks a shift in the competitive landscape of college football in North Dakota, leaving the University of North Dakota (UND) as the only FCS football program in the state. NDSU's athletic director, Bill Chaves, emphasized that while the Bison's departure is a notable change, UND remains committed to building a sustainable and competitive program within the FCS framework.
Impact on Rivalries and Scheduling
The transition of NDSU to the FBS raises concerns regarding the future of the longstanding rivalry between UND and NDSU. The Bison's new schedule will likely limit their FCS matchups, potentially jeopardizing future games between the two teams. The last scheduled game between them was set for November 21, 2026, at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks. Historically, the rivalry has faced interruptions due to division realignments, with the teams not competing from 2003 to 2015. Since their renewal in the Division I era, the teams have met eight times, with UND achieving its only victory over NDSU in 2023.
Broader Implications for FCS Programs
NDSU's move has sparked discussions among other FCS programs, particularly in Montana. University of Montana athletic director Kent Haslam expressed a mix of admiration and concern regarding NDSU's transition, viewing it as a potential benchmark for similar programs. However, he noted that moving to the FBS is not straightforward, requiring substantial financial commitments and an invitation from an FBS conference. The University of Montana and Montana State University face significant hurdles, including the need to expand their athletic offerings and secure funding for such a transition.
Financial Considerations and Future Prospects
The financial implications of moving to the FBS are considerable. NDSU's transition involves an initial investment estimated at $18 million, which includes fees to the NCAA and additional costs associated with upgrading their football program. In contrast, Montana and Montana State would need to navigate legislative support and community backing to pursue a similar path. Haslam pointed out that the evolving landscape of college football, including potential changes to playoff structures and revenue sharing, could influence future decisions for FCS programs.
Official Statements & Responses
Bill Chaves, UND's athletic director, stated, "At UND, our priority remains building nationally competitive programs that are sustainable, fiscally responsible and aligned with who we are." Meanwhile, the Missouri Valley Football Conference acknowledged NDSU's contributions over the past 18 years, wishing them well in their future endeavors.
Criticism & Opposition
Some critics express concern that NDSU's departure may diminish the competitive balance within the FCS, as the Bison have been a dominant force, winning ten national championships since their move to Division I. This dominance has led to discussions about "fan fatigue" and the need for programs like Montana and Montana State to reassess their positions in the evolving college football landscape.
What's Next
As NDSU prepares for its transition to the Mountain West, the implications for UND and other FCS programs will continue to unfold. The future of rivalries, scheduling, and the financial viability of moving to the FBS will be critical topics for discussion among athletic directors and university stakeholders in the coming years.
