North Dakota State’s transition to the FBS level is off to an incredible start.
The Bison have opened their historic first season as an FBS program 2-0, following up their dominant 33-7 victory over Jacksonville State with another win over Fordham. NDSU has wasted no time proving that its success at the FCS level can translate to the next level.
The Bison Are Making History
NDSU entered the 2026 season facing one of the biggest changes in program history.
After years of dominating the FCS, the Bison moved up to the FBS and joined the Mountain West. Many wondered how quickly they could adjust to playing against FBS competition.
So far, the answer has been simple: very quickly.
NDSU opened the season by dominating Jacksonville State 33-7, outgaining the Gamecocks 373-170 and controlling the football for more than 36 minutes.
Now, the Bison have followed that performance with another victory.
The Defense Continues to Impress
Defense has been one of the biggest reasons for NDSU’s early success.
Against Jacksonville State, the Bison held the Gamecocks to only 170 total yards and just 85 rushing yards. Donovan Woolen led the way with 10 tackles and was named the Mountain West’s Defensive Player of the Week.
That physical style has immediately carried over into NDSU’s FBS transition.
The Bison aren’t simply surviving against their new competition. They’re playing the same brand of physical football that made them one of the most successful programs in college football history.
NDSU Is Sending a Message
The Bison were already one of the most respected programs in the FCS.
Now they’re showing the FBS that they belong.
Quarterback Nathan Hayes also made an impressive debut against Jacksonville State, throwing for 160 yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile, the rushing attack and defense allowed NDSU to control the game from start to finish.
At 2-0, North Dakota State has already become one of the most intriguing stories in the Mountain West.
The Bison came to the FBS to prove they belonged. Two games into the new era, they’re doing much more than that they’re winning.
