FCS standard bearer North Dakota State seeks fresh challenge with leap to FBS

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is transitioning from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), joining the Mountain West Conference. This move follows NDSU's dominant run in FCS, where the team secured 10 national championships in 15 years. The decision, driven by a desire for new challenges, comes after discussions led by Athletic Director Matt Larsen.

NDSU will pay $5 million to the NCAA for the transition and a $12.5 million entry fee to the Mountain West over six years. Financially, the university plans to double its football budget to accommodate increased staffing, scholarships, and other expenses. The school has tentatively raised $25 million to support the transition.

The move to FBS means NDSU will initially receive 50% of College Football Playoff and bowl revenues distributed to Mountain West members, increasing to full shares by 2032. The team will challenge the NCAA's two-year postseason probation