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North Dakota State Is 4-0: The Bison Are Making Noise in Their First FBS Season
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- North Dakota State Is 4-0: The Bison Are Making Noise in Their First FBS Season
Photo by: Isaiah J. Downing
North Dakota State is officially making history.
In its first season as an FBS program, the Bison have opened the 2026 season with a perfect 4-0 record after defeating Sacramento State 31-10 on Saturday night. NDSU has quickly established itself as one of the most intriguing teams in the country during its transition to the FBS level.
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The Bison wasted little time taking control against Sacramento State. North Dakota State scored 21 points in the first quarter, jumping out to a commanding lead before the Hornets could settle into the game.
Quarterback Nathan Hayes connected with Jackson Williams for a 33-yard touchdown to open the scoring. Shortly afterward, Darius Givance returned a fumble 24 yards for another touchdown, giving NDSU a 14-0 advantage. Myles Mitchell then added a 9-yard touchdown run to make it 21-0 after one quarter.
NDSU added another touchdown in the second quarter when DJ Scott broke free for a 42-yard touchdown run. By halftime, the Bison were in complete control with a 28-3 advantage.
Hayes finished the night 14-of-24 passing for 210 yards and a touchdown, while Williams continued his strong start to the season with seven catches for 134 yards and a touchdown. Scott added 80 rushing yards and a touchdown on 14 carries.
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The defense has also been a major part of NDSU's early success. The Bison forced three turnovers against Sacramento State, including two interceptions, and Givance's fumble recovery gave the defense its third touchdown of the season.
The 4-0 start is especially notable because NDSU has only recently made the jump from the FCS to the FBS. The Bison have already picked up their first Mountain West victory, beating Air Force 38-32 on Sept. 12 before following it up with Saturday night's road win.
Now, North Dakota State gets a bye week before returning home to face Wyoming on Oct. 3.
The Bison have already made their presence felt in their first FBS season. At 4-0, they are no longer simply adjusting to a new level of college football they are showing they can compete at it.
