North Dakota State University (NDSU), one of the most dominant programs in FCS history, is preparing to make the leap to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
However, the Bison’s elevation to the next level comes with a key stipulation: they are asking the NCAA to waive its two-year reclassification rule that bars transitioning teams from postseason participation.
After winning 10 FCS national championships and building a sustained dynasty, NDSU believes it is ready to compete — and win — immediately at the FBS level.
NDSU’s Request: Waiving the NCAA’s Two-Year Rule
Under current NCAA policy, schools reclassifying from FCS to FBS must wait two years before becoming eligible for postseason competition. North Dakota State is seeking an exception to that regulation.
Since 2010, the Bison have qualified for the FCS playoffs every season and have reached the national championship game 11 times during that stretch. With such consistent success, the program argues that the rule is outdated in today’s evolving college football landscape.
Athletic director Matt Larsen described the regulation as “antiquated,” noting that college football’s structure and competitive balance have significantly changed since the rule was introduced. NDSU maintains that its competitive track record justifies immediate postseason eligibility.
At this stage, the NCAA has not provided a timeline for a decision regarding the waiver request.
Joining the Mountain West Conference
North Dakota State is expected to join the Mountain West Conference, a league currently reshaping its identity after losing five programs to the Pac-12 Conference.
The Mountain West has openly supported NDSU’s waiver request. Conference officials see the Bison as a program capable of restoring competitive depth following the departure of prominent members such as Boise State Broncos and Fresno State Bulldogs.
Commissioner Gloria Nevarez emphasized that North Dakota State’s championship culture and commitment to student-athlete development align closely with the league’s mission. The conference believes NDSU can help elevate its national football profile and reestablish momentum within the expanded College Football Playoff era.
The Expanded College Football Playoff Landscape
The 12-team expansion of the College Football Playoff in 2024 created new opportunities for so-called “Group of Six” conferences, including the Mountain West.
In 2024, Boise State Broncos secured a first-round bye after winning the Mountain West title but fell 31–14 to Penn State Nittany Lions in the quarterfinals.
Another former FCS powerhouse, James Madison Dukes, reached the playoff in its third FBS season after capturing the Sun Belt Conference championship. JMU lost 51–34 to Oregon Ducks in the opening round.
Similarly, Tulane Green Wave qualified in 2025 but was defeated 41–10 by Ole Miss Rebels.
These lopsided results have sparked debate about whether Group of Six teams can consistently compete with Power Four programs. North Dakota State believes its history proves it can handle that challenge.
Proven Success Against FBS Programs
Unlike many FCS programs, NDSU has built a reputation for competing — and winning — against FBS opponents.
The Bison hold a 9–5 record versus FBS competition. Notable victories include a 2016 upset of a ranked Iowa Hawkeyes squad. In prior seasons, NDSU defeated Kansas State Wildcats, Iowa State Cyclones, Minnesota Golden Gophers, and Kansas Jayhawks.
More recently, the Bison nearly upset the Arizona Wildcats in 2022 and came close to shocking the Colorado Buffaloes in 2024.
Power Four programs have become more cautious about scheduling NDSU since 2016 due to these high-profile upsets. The Bison’s next matchup against a Power Four opponent is scheduled for 2028 against Oregon Ducks.
NFL Pipeline and Player Development
North Dakota State’s success extends beyond college football dominance.
The program has produced NFL talent at a rate comparable to top-tier FBS schools. Quarterbacks Carson Wentz and Trey Lance were both selected within the top three picks of their respective NFL drafts.
Currently, 18 former Bison are active in the NFL. That list includes starting offensive linemen Jalen Sundell and Grey Zabel, who play for the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks.
Such professional success bolsters NDSU’s argument that it possesses the infrastructure, recruiting strength, and development pipeline necessary to compete at the FBS level.
Final FCS Season and Looking Ahead to 2026
In its final FCS campaign, North Dakota State posted a 12–1 record before being eliminated in the second round by national runner-up Illinois State Redbirds.
Head coach Tim Polasek remains confident about the program’s readiness for FBS competition. He emphasized that the transition is not about experimentation but about sustaining a winning culture. While acknowledging that adjustments will be required, Polasek made clear that NDSU intends to compete immediately rather than endure a lengthy rebuilding phase.
Conclusion
North Dakota State’s move to the FBS represents a significant moment in modern college football realignment. With 10 FCS championships, consistent playoff appearances, and a strong NFL development track record, the Bison believe they have earned the opportunity to compete for postseason honors right away.
Backed by the Mountain West Conference, NDSU is challenging the NCAA’s two-year reclassification rule in hopes of accelerating its competitive timeline. Whether the NCAA grants the waiver remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Bison are not moving up simply to participate — they are moving up to win.
FAQs
Why does North Dakota State want an NCAA waiver?
NDSU is requesting a waiver of the NCAA’s two-year reclassification rule so it can participate in postseason play immediately after transitioning to FBS.
Which conference will North Dakota State join?
The Bison are set to join the Mountain West Conference, which supports their waiver request.
How successful has NDSU been against FBS teams?
North Dakota State holds a 9–5 record against FBS opponents, including multiple victories over Power Four programs.