North Dakota State

The Bison enter their Mountain West era with a roster largely intact, weathering seven portal departures while adding three newcomers in what amounts to a net-neutral exchange that produced no measurable change in overall talent level. North Dakota State grades out as a middling Mountain West contender with a -1.0 JP+ rating that places them 72nd nationally, powered by an offense that ranks 55th (+0.5) but weighed down by a defense that sits 83rd (-1.5). The minimal roster turnover suggests continuity, but it also means the same strengths and weaknesses that defined last season remain largely unchanged heading into conference play.

JP+ projects 7.8 wins for the Bison, a number that reflects both the program's steady foundation and its limitations against better Mountain West competition. Road trips to Air Force, UNLV, and New Mexico represent the season's biggest challenges, while home contests against Northern Illinois, UTEP, and Fordham offer the clearest paths to victories that could push them toward bowl eligibility. If the defense can find improvement from its current 83rd-ranked standing, North Dakota State could exceed expectations and compete for a middle-tier Mountain West finish. If not, they'll likely settle into the bottom half of their new conference home.