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North Dakota State Claims Victory in Historic First FBS Game

In a significant milestone, North Dakota State secured its first win as an FBS program, defeating Jacksonville State 33-7. Nathan Hayes threw for two touchdowns, leading the team to victory.

9/16/2026, 7:00:41 PM

In a landmark achievement, North Dakota State University (NDSU) celebrated its inaugural victory as a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) program on Saturday. The Bison faced off against Jacksonville State, showcasing their prowess with an impressive 33-7 win, marking a significant moment for the team's transition to FBS. Quarterback Nathan Hayes led the offense by completing 14 passes out of 22 attempts, successfully throwing for two touchdowns, which played a pivotal role in the team’s triumph. Hayes' performance highlighted his ability to lead the Bison's attack effectively, establishing confidence for both the player and the team in their new competitive environment. Supporting Hayes was Myles Mitchell, who contributed significantly with 74 rushing yards. His efforts on the ground complemented the air game and allowed the Bison to maintain a balanced offensive strategy throughout the game. NDSU's ability to dominate both the running and passing facets of the game was crucial in securing their victory. NDSU, a former power in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) with an impressive record of 10 national titles, has made the leap to the FBS, seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth. The Bison showed that their storied football legacy could transition successfully into this new phase of their history. Head Coach Matt Entz expressed pride in his team's performance, emphasizing the importance of this win as a foundational moment for the program. "This is Step No. 1," he stated, indicating that while this win is significant, it is just the beginning for the Bison in their pursuit of success at the FBS level. With this victory marking their first chapter in the FBS, North Dakota State is poised to build on this momentum as they continue their season. The Bison's successful debut sends a clear message to the rest of the FBS landscape, proving that they are ready for competition amongst the highest tier of college football.

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