Justin Eiler
Football
2/9/2026 10:00:00 AM
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FARGO, N.D. — North Dakota State University announced today that it has accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West Conference as an affiliate member for football, competing at the Football Bowl Subdivision level beginning this fall.
The move follows years of evaluation and planning and reflects NDSU’s long-term strategy as a student focused, land-grant, research university. Joining the Mountain West aligns the university with peer institutions that share similar values and supports broader institutional priorities related to academic reputation, research growth, workforce partnerships, enrollment, and national engagement. It also gives NDSU a new platform on one of college athletics’ most dynamic stages, positioning the university and its football program for a bold new era in the Mountain West.
“This is a proud moment for NDSU,” said David Cook, 15th president of North Dakota State University. “We’ve built something special here by being thoughtful, disciplined, and willing to take bold steps when the time is right. We’ve made a move like this before, and it strengthened our university in lasting ways. Joining the Mountain West builds on that legacy and reflects our confidence in the people, programs, and purpose that define NDSU. It allows us to extend our impact, expand our national connections, and create new opportunities for our students and community while staying true to our mission.”
Athletics excellence has been a key part of NDSU’s national profile for decades, and the transition to FBS competition builds on that legacy while supporting broader institutional goals. NDSU will join the Mountain West Conference for football only, while continuing to prioritize and strengthen its multisport conference membership in the Summit League that provides strong competition with regional opponents and rivals in most sports. NDSU is a member of the Big 12 Conference for wrestling.
“This is a historic day for NDSU Athletics. Our football program has earned this opportunity through the sustained success and leadership of our student-athletes and coaches past and present,” said NDSU Director of Athletics Matt Larsen. “Joining the Mountain West is an exciting new opportunity for our team to compete at the highest level, for our fans to see FBS opponents coming to Fargo, and for Bison football to reach a wider national audience through expanded television coverage.”
Competing in the Mountain West places NDSU within a league known for its tradition, competitiveness, and coast‑to‑coast recognition — a conference that positions Bison football for heightened visibility and increased engagement with alumni and supporters nationwide.
“We are thrilled to welcome North Dakota State University’s football program to the Mountain West,” said MW Commissioner Gloria Nevarez. “The Bison bring a championship mindset and a bold vision for growth that aligns with the unwavering commitment to the excellence of the Mountain West. Their dedication to elevating the student‑athlete experience — on the field, in the classroom, and throughout the community — will energize the Mountain West and help propel our football profile to new heights nationwide.”
NDSU will continue to engage university stakeholders as planning moves forward. Additional details related to competition timelines, operations, and implementation will be shared as they are finalized. Momentum is building across campus and throughout Bison Nation, reflecting widespread enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead in the Mountain West.
“Dr. David Cook and I signed the agreement that moves NDSU football to the Mountain West following extensive planning and evaluation,” said Interim President Rick Berg. “This decision strengthens NDSU’s national presence while keeping our academic mission, student success, and institutional values front and center. I fully support this move and the leadership that brought us here.”
