Can North Dakota State Make the College Football Playoff in Its First FBS Season?

In North Dakota State's inaugural FBS season, the Bison have made a stunning start, achieving a 4-0 record after just four games. They have defeated three FBS opponents, won twice on the road, and secured their first Mountain West game victory. This remarkable performance has sparked a question: Can North Dakota State make the College Football Playoff in their very first season?

The answer is yes, due to a recent NCAA rule change that eliminated the two-year transition period for FCS programs moving to FBS. Consequently, North Dakota State and fellow FBS newcomer Sacramento State are immediately eligible for the Mountain West championship game, bowl games, and the College Football Playoff.

North Dakota State's path to the playoff is very much within reach. They simply need to win the Mountain West conference championship and then outperform the champions of the other six Group of Six conferences. The Bison's current 4-0 record, coupled with the fact that their opponents have collectively been 0-4, suggests they are well on their way to achieving this goal.

Their path is narrowed down, but not impossible. The Mountain West championship game is scheduled for December 4th, at which point North Dakota State must defeat the highest-ranked team in the conference. With a favorable schedule that lacks powerhouse opponents from other conferences, the Bison have a realistic chance to win the Mountain West and secure their place in the College Football Playoff.