North Dakota State University (NDSU) is reportedly engaged in serious discussions to join the Mountain West Conference as a football-only member, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. This potential move could significantly impact the landscape of college football, especially within the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and the Group of Five conferences.
The discussions are still in the early stages, but the possibility of NDSU transitioning to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) has garnered attention from various stakeholders. NDSU has built a reputation as a powerhouse in FCS football, winning multiple national championships and consistently producing NFL-caliber talent. Their success on the field has led to speculation about a potential move to a higher level of competition.
Joining the Mountain West as a football-only member would allow NDSU to compete at the FBS level without fully transitioning all athletic programs. This arrangement is similar to other schools that have sought to elevate their football programs while maintaining their existing commitments in other sports. The Mountain West, which currently includes schools like Boise State, Fresno State, and San Diego State, has expressed openness to expanding its football membership to enhance competitiveness and television appeal.
Sources indicate that NDSU's leadership is weighing the benefits of such a move, including increased revenue, greater national exposure, and the opportunity to compete against higher-caliber opponents regularly. However, there are also challenges to consider, such as the logistical aspects of transitioning to FBS and potential resistance from other conferences or institutions.
If the deal goes through, it could set a precedent for other successful FCS programs considering similar moves. The timeline for any official announcement remains uncertain, but the discussions highlight the ongoing reshaping of college football's conference alignments and the growing importance of television markets and revenue streams.
Overall, the potential inclusion of North Dakota State in the Mountain West as a football-only member underscores the shifting dynamics within college athletics, where strategic conference realignments are increasingly driven by financial and competitive considerations.