FCS powerhouse North Dakota State University is attempting to join the big leagues.
The Mountain West is in serious dialogue to add FCS powerhouse North Dakota State as a football-only member starting this coming season, sources tell @YahooSports.
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) February 7, 2026
A deal could be finalized as soon as this weekend.https://t.co/t42jWKtucI
NDSU, which has won TEN National Championships in the FCS since 2011, believes it's the right time to make the jump.
The success of former FCS school James Madison University, which competed in the College Football Playoff this season, no doubt impacted this decision.
Why would NDSU give up the security of contending for Championships for possible bowl games?
— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) February 7, 2026
• NDSU would be immediately competitive in the MWC
• They just saw JMU go to the CFP at breakneck speed, and they generally ate JMU for lunch
While the FBS offers better competition and national recognition, it's also a risk for NDSU to give up its powerhouse legacy and start anew in an increasingly NIL-driven college football ecosystem.
They want to give up national titles and rivalries for the Frisco Bowl.
— Brian Ping (@brianpingnews) February 7, 2026
The question here for NDSU fans. Would you rather play for FCS titles? Or a MW conference title?
— JP (@JordanPierce7) February 7, 2026
Big fish in the small pond or small fish in the ocean?
Will NDSU see success in the FBS, or will they relish the days they were perennial FCS national championship contenders?