NDSU’s College Football Playoff Aspirations Diminish with Weak FBS Schedule

North Dakota State University (NDSU) has always been a powerhouse in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). Their recent jump to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) is shaking things up, though.

The Bison are aiming for the College Football Playoff (CFP) in 2026. But let’s be real—their schedule doesn’t exactly scream “national contender” since it lacks Power Four conference opponents.

The Bison’s transition comes after nearly two decades of FCS dominance. They’ve snagged 10 national championships and even had three unbeaten seasons.

But the FBS is a different beast. Their path to the CFP is already looking tricky, mostly because of the schedule.

NDSU’s non-conference games are all against FCS schools. That’s not exactly going to wow the CFP selection committee, is it?

Non-Conference Games

They’ll start off August 29 against Incarnate Word in San Antonio. Next up is a trip to Central Arkansas on September 12, then a home game against Austin Peay on September 19 at the Fargodome.

These matchups might help them build some momentum. Still, they’re not the kind of games that boost a team’s playoff resume.

Mountain West Conference Play

After their non-conference slate, NDSU jumps into Mountain West Conference play. The full schedule’s not out yet, but here’s what we know.

The Bison will visit Air Force, Hawaii, New Mexico, and UNLV. Home games at the Fargodome include Nevada, Northern Illinois, UTEP, and Wyoming.

These games are definitely a step up in competition. But without those big Power Four opponents, it’s a tough sell for the committee.

Challenges in Scheduling

Scheduling is a headache for NDSU right now. For example, USC had an open date on August 29 when NDSU moved up, but apparently, the Trojans already had plans.

This kind of thing happens a lot to newly promoted FBS teams. It’s not easy getting on those big-time schedules.

Strategic Approach and Coaching Philosophy

Still, head coach Tim Polasek seems optimistic. He’s all about sticking to the basics—the same principles that worked so well in the FCS.

Polasek often credits former coaches Chris Klieman and Craig Bohl. Their focus on a winning mindset and daily improvement still echoes through the program.

Maintaining Core Principles

Polasek keeps the message simple: “You have to keep it really simple. You got to really hold onto the things that have created some of the success,” he says.

Honestly, that straightforward approach has served them well so far. It’ll be interesting to see how it holds up in the FBS.

Impact of the Missouri Valley Football Conference

Polasek also points to the Missouri Valley Football Conference as a big factor in their readiness. “There have been years where we’ve been seven deep, where you have to show up and play,” he notes.

That kind of grind builds resilience. It’s probably going to help as they settle into the Mountain West.

Challenges in the Mountain West

Polasek isn’t sugarcoating things, though. “In my three years I spent in the Mountain West at Wyoming, there was never a time we weren’t in the games. But there was never a time they were just going to hand us a W,” he recalls.

The competition level is going to be relentless. No freebies, that’s for sure.

Postseason Aspirations

If NDSU wants a real shot at the CFP, they pretty much have to win out—and do it convincingly. The last three Group of Six teams to make the 12-team field all had at least one Power Four win.

There’s also the NCAA waiver situation. NDSU still needs approval to compete in the postseason for 2026 and 2027. If there aren’t enough bowl-eligible teams, though, the Bison could sneak into a bowl game.

Looking Ahead

As NDSU heads into this new chapter, expectations are running high—inside the program and out. We believe in our processes year-round. We understand how to practice, Polasek said.

The Bison’s commitment to their core values, plus their willingness to adjust to the FBS world, will shape what happens next. It’s a lot to take in, honestly.

For more details on NDSU’s schedule and their route to the CFP, you can check out the full article on Heavy.com.