Fargo Celebrates Big Win

It looks like there’s a celebration going on in Fargo! Quarterback Nathan Hayes threw for two touchdowns with a solid 14-of-22 passing performance, and running back Myles Mitchell rushed for 74 yards on 11 carries. This impressive effort helped North Dakota State secure a 33-7 victory over Jacksonville State, marking the Bison’s first win in the FBS division in their history.

Once a powerhouse in the FCS with 10 national championships, North Dakota State showcased their talent in front of 18,573 fans at the Fargodome for this dominant season opener. In a tense first half, the game was tied 7-7, but the Bison unleashed 26 unanswered points to take control.

As they prepare for the 2026 season in the Mountain West Conference, North Dakota State is set to return to FCS for their next game against Fordham. After that, they’ll officially begin league play against Air Force on September 12.

Moving up to a higher division typically means challenges like developing a deeper roster and navigating an intense learning curve. Yet, it seems like North Dakota State didn’t struggle as much as one might expect.

This isn’t entirely surprising, considering the Bison have played like a mid-tier Power Four program while in FCS. Their stadium atmosphere, culture of physicality, and commitment to player development have consistently shone through.

While the upcoming game against Fordham will provide a nod to their FCS legacy, the real excitement will kick off when league play starts against Air Force. The Mountain West is experiencing significant changes, but Saturday’s game demonstrated that North Dakota State isn’t just eager to join the ranks or aim for bowl eligibility in their inaugural season. They are ready to compete right away.

If this opening game is any indication of what lies ahead, other teams in the conference might find themselves feeling uneasy about facing the Bison. Fargo is prepared for the spotlight, and college football will undoubtedly benefit from their readiness.