North Dakota State Bison Generate Excitement in Mountain West

North Dakota State University (NDSU) has captured significant attention within the Mountain West Conference, particularly following the announcement of its 2026 matchups. The Bison’s entry into the league has sparked curiosity among established schools, as they are viewed as a formidable addition to the conference landscape.

Media Coverage Highlights NDSU’s Impact

On Tuesday, various media outlets, including the Las Vegas Journal-Review and the Albuquerque Journal, prominently featured NDSU in their coverage of the new schedules. The lead story revolved around the Bison, highlighting the anticipation surrounding their participation in the Mountain West. The excitement is palpable, with many viewing NDSU as a strong contender in its inaugural season.

Steve Cofield, a radio show host for ESPN Las Vegas, expressed this sentiment succinctly: “I think there’s massive curiosity… North Dakota State is a better program,” referencing the success of other teams, like James Madison, that have transitioned from FCS to FBS. He emphasized the intrigue surrounding how well NDSU will perform in its first year.

As NDSU joins the Mountain West, the conference had to adjust its 2026 schedules. The established schools had already planned their matchups based on a rotating home-and-away format. A notable change involves the University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP), which will now play at NDSU instead of UNLV. This switch poses a challenge for UTEP fans, who might prefer the attractions of Las Vegas over a trip to Fargo.

Travel Dynamics and Fan Engagement

Bret Bloomquist, who covers UTEP for the El Paso Times, remarked on the travel expectations for fans, noting that UTEP does not traditionally have a large traveling contingent outside of games against New Mexico State. Still, he expressed enthusiasm about experiencing Fargo, a city he has visited only once.

NDSU’s schedule includes games against the University of Hawaii, New Mexico, Air Force, and Nevada-Las Vegas, along with home games against Northern Illinois, UTEP, Nevada, and Wyoming. Specific dates and times for these matchups will be announced soon, generating additional speculation about fan attendance.

Cofield pointed out the logistical considerations for NDSU fans traveling to Las Vegas, particularly given the university’s significant alumni base in the Phoenix area and direct flights from Fargo. The game at Allegiant Stadium could potentially draw a larger crowd than expected, as teams like Hawaii and New Mexico have historically attracted fans to the area.

NDSU’s integration into the Mountain West marks a significant shift for the conference. They join UTEP and Northern Illinois, the latter transitioning from the Mid-American Conference. UTEP’s experience with former FCS teams positions them well as they prepare to face NDSU, which has previously competed against several teams now in Conference USA.

Bloomquist commented on the excitement surrounding NDSU’s entry, stating, “North Dakota State does in its own way bring in a pretty big name… people are pretty excited about that.” The shift to the Mountain West represents a fresh start for many schools, particularly for UTEP, as they move away from Conference USA.

As the anticipation builds for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how NDSU navigates its new conference and what impact it will have on the Mountain West’s competitive landscape.