North Dakota State Explores Mountain West Conference Move, Signaling Shift in FCS Landscape
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A potential move by North Dakota State (NDSU) to the Mountain West Conference as a football-only member is currently under discussion, a meaningful development that could reshape the landscape of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). The talks, first reported by Yahoo Sports and confirmed by a source briefed on the negotiations to The Athletic, come as the Mountain West navigates its own realignment following the departure of several key programs.
The Bison, a dominant force in the FCS, having secured 10 national championships since 2011, have long eyed a transition to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The recent moves of former FCS rivals James Madison and Sam Houston to FBS have further fueled these ambitions. However, NDSU’s geographic location has historically presented challenges to finding a suitable conference fit.
Bison Football’s FBS-Caliber Performance
NDSU’s football program has consistently demonstrated its ability to compete with FBS opponents. Since 2004, the Bison have compiled a 9-5 record against teams from the higher division, including notable victories over Iowa, Iowa State, and Minnesota (twice). This success underscores their readiness for a potential step up in competition.
Mountain West Realignment Creates Prospect
The Mountain West Conference is undergoing a period of significant change. This summer, Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Utah State will join the reconstituted Pac-12. In response, the MW is bolstering its ranks with UTEP as a full member and Northern Illinois as a football-only member, alongside non-football additions Grand canyon and UC Davis.
the conference is also embroiled in a legal dispute with the Pac-12 over $150 million in exit and poaching fees. Currently, the Mountain West’s remaining football members include Air Force, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, San jose State, UNLV, and Wyoming. Adding NDSU would bring the total number of football-playing members to 10.
Financial Considerations and Timeline
While a deal is not yet finalized, discussions are reportedly “deep” and expected to continue into next week. The transition would involve substantial financial commitments, including a significant entry fee to the Mountain West and a $5 million NCAA fee for moving from FCS to FBS. The total number of FBS programs would then increase to 137.
The Mountain west recently finalized a new media rights agreement spanning from fall 2026 to summer 2032 with Fox Sports, CBS Sports, and The CW. This new deal provides a stable broadcasting foundation for any potential expansion.
NDSU, coached by Tim Polasek for the past two seasons, recently won the 2024 FCS championship and began the 2025 season with a 12-0 record before a playoff upset loss to Illinois State. This continued success further strengthens their case for a move to the FBS level.
The potential addition of North Dakota State to the Mountain West represents a strategic move for both institutions, signaling a dynamic shift in the college football landscape and highlighting the growing competitiveness of the FCS-to-FBS transition.
