North Dakota State University in talks to join FBS football

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is reportedly on the verge of joining the Mountain West Conference as a football-only member. According to Yahoo Sports, the deal could be finalized as soon as this weekend. The conference presidents have approved the addition, but discussions on financial terms are ongoing. NDSU is expected to pay an entry fee potentially reaching tens of millions, along with a $5 million NCAA payment.

NDSU, a dominant force at the FCS level with nine national titles in the past two decades, has been in talks with the Mountain West for over a year about moving up to the FBS level. The move would increase the number of football programs in the Mountain West to 10, joining existing members such as Air Force, UNLV, and Nevada. Northern Illinois already participates in the conference as a football-only member.

While NDSU's football team prepares for this potential transition, the university's other sports teams will remain in the Summit League. Former players have indicated