Novel Mexico Lobos Host North Dakota State Bison in Historic FBS Debut
Albuquerque, New Mexico — In a landmark moment for college football, the New Mexico Lobos will host the North Dakota State Bison on October 24, 2026, marking the Bison’s first-ever game as a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) member. The matchup, part of the Mountain West Conference’s revamped schedule, pits a storied FCS powerhouse against a Mountain West contender in a clash that has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. With live scores, team compositions, and real-time updates available through platforms like 365Scores, this game promises to be a defining moment for both programs.
The Bison, winners of 10 FCS national championships in the last 18 seasons, are making their long-awaited transition to the FBS after joining the Mountain West as a football-only member in February 2026. Their debut against the Lobos is not just a game—it’s a historic step in a journey that has seen North Dakota State dominate the lower division even as preparing for the challenges of the FBS. For New Mexico, the matchup offers a chance to assert itself in a conference reshaped by the departure of powerhouse programs like Boise State and Utah State to the Pac-12.
As the first meeting between these two programs, the game carries added significance. The Lobos, under head coach Bronco Mendenhall, are looking to build on a competitive 2025 season, while the Bison, led by quarterback Cam Miller, aim to prove they can compete at the FBS level despite their current postseason ineligibility due to NCAA transition rules. With both teams eyeing a potential Mountain West title, this game could set the tone for their respective seasons.
The Road to FBS: North Dakota State’s Transition
North Dakota State’s move to the FBS has been years in the making. The Bison, who have dominated the FCS with a record 12 Missouri Valley Football Conference titles and 10 national championships since 2004, officially joined the Mountain West as a football-only member in February 2026. Their transition was finalized after the conference announced their inclusion on February 9, 2026, replacing Northern Illinois on New Mexico’s schedule, as reported by the Albuquerque Journal.
The Bison’s first FBS season includes a challenging slate of road games, with matchups against New Mexico, UNLV, Hawaii, and Air Force. They will likewise host Nevada, Northern Illinois, UTEP, and Wyoming. However, due to NCAA bylaws governing transitions from FCS to FBS, North Dakota State is ineligible for postseason play in 2026, including the Mountain West title game. This rule, designed to ease the transition for programs moving up in competition level, means the Bison will focus on building toward 2027, when they will be eligible for bowl games and conference championships.
For fans of the Bison, the transition represents both an exciting opportunity and a test of the program’s ability to compete at a higher level. North Dakota State has built a reputation for developing NFL-caliber talent, with players like Trey Lance (San Francisco 49ers) and Christian Watson (Green Bay Packers) emerging from the program in recent years. The October 24 game against New Mexico will be a critical benchmark for the Bison as they navigate the challenges of the FBS.
New Mexico’s Mountain West Ambitions
The Lobos enter the 2026 season with renewed optimism. After a 2025 campaign that saw them finish with a winning record, New Mexico is looking to establish itself as a contender in a Mountain West Conference that has lost some of its traditional powerhouses. The departures of Boise State, San Diego State, Colorado State, Utah State, and Fresno State to the Pac-12 have created a more open race for the conference title, and the Lobos are among the teams expected to vie for the championship.
Head coach Bronco Mendenhall, who took over the program in 2023, has brought a disciplined and structured approach to Albuquerque. Known for his success at BYU, where he led the Cougars to 11 bowl games in 11 seasons, Mendenhall has emphasized player development and a strong defensive identity. The Lobos’ defense, led by linebacker Raymond Scott, ranked among the top 30 nationally in 2025, and the team’s offense has shown flashes of explosiveness under quarterback Dylan Hopkins.
The October 24 game against North Dakota State is a critical test for New Mexico. A win would not only boost their Mountain West title hopes but also send a message to the rest of the conference that the Lobos are a team to be reckoned with. With a home crowd at University Stadium expected to be electric, the Lobos will appear to capitalize on their momentum and secure a statement victory.
Key Players to Watch
For North Dakota State, all eyes will be on quarterback Cam Miller, a dual-threat signal-caller who has been the engine of the Bison’s offense. Miller, who led the Bison to an FCS national championship in January 2026, is known for his poise under pressure and ability to extend plays with his legs. In the FCS title game against Montana State, Miller accounted for three touchdowns, including a crucial rushing score in the fourth quarter. His performance against New Mexico will be a key indicator of how he adapts to FBS-level competition.
On the defensive side, linebacker Spencer Waege is a player to watch. Waege, a first-team All-Missouri Valley selection in 2025, is a disruptive force in the Bison’s 3-4 defense. His ability to read offenses and make plays in the backfield will be critical against New Mexico’s offensive line.
For the Lobos, quarterback Dylan Hopkins will be the focal point of the offense. Hopkins, a transfer from UAB, has shown the ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground. His chemistry with wide receiver Luke Wysong, who led the team in receiving yards in 2025, will be vital in stretching North Dakota State’s defense. On defense, linebacker Raymond Scott will be tasked with containing Miller and the Bison’s rushing attack. Scott, a senior, was a second-team All-Mountain West selection in 2025 and is known for his speed and tackling ability.
How to Follow the Game
Fans looking to follow the New Mexico vs. North Dakota State game in real time have several options. The matchup will be broadcast live on ESPN, with coverage beginning at 7:30 p.m. MT on October 24. For those who prefer digital updates, platforms like 365Scores will provide live scores, play-by-play commentary, and team compositions. The official websites of the New Mexico Lobos and North Dakota State Bison will also offer pre-game analysis, post-game recaps, and exclusive content.
For fans attending the game in person, University Stadium in Albuquerque is expected to be a lively venue. Tickets are available through the Lobos’ official ticketing page, with prices varying based on seating location. Tailgating and pre-game festivities are expected to commence several hours before kickoff, offering fans a chance to soak in the atmosphere of this historic matchup.
What’s at Stake?
While the game is a historic moment for North Dakota State, it also carries significant implications for both teams. For the Bison, a strong performance against an FBS opponent would validate their transition and provide momentum for the rest of the season. Even without postseason eligibility, a win over New Mexico would send a message to the rest of the Mountain West that North Dakota State is a force to be reckoned with.
For the Lobos, a victory would be a major step toward their goal of winning the Mountain West Conference. With the conference landscape more open than ever, New Mexico has an opportunity to position itself as a title contender. A win over North Dakota State would not only boost their confidence but also demonstrate their ability to compete against a program with a winning pedigree.
Beyond the on-field implications, the game is a celebration of college football’s evolving landscape. The matchup between New Mexico and North Dakota State reflects the growing competitiveness of the Mountain West and the increasing parity between FBS and FCS programs. As the Bison make their FBS debut, they join a select group of programs that have successfully transitioned from the lower division to the highest level of college football.
Looking Ahead
The outcome of the October 24 game will have ripple effects for both programs. For North Dakota State, a strong showing could set the tone for their 2027 season, when they will be eligible for postseason play. The Bison’s coaching staff, led by head coach Matt Entz, will use the 2026 season to evaluate their roster and make adjustments ahead of their first full FBS campaign.
For New Mexico, the game is a critical juncture in their quest for a Mountain West title. A win would keep their conference championship hopes alive, while a loss could force the Lobos to regroup and refocus on their remaining schedule. With games against UNLV, Air Force, and Hawaii on the horizon, the Lobos will need to maintain consistency to achieve their goals.
The next major checkpoint for both teams will be their respective conference schedules. New Mexico’s next home game after North Dakota State is against Wyoming on November 7, while the Bison will travel to Hawaii on November 14. Both games will provide further insight into each team’s progress and potential.
As the countdown to October 24 continues, fans of both programs are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a thrilling and historic matchup. Whether you’re cheering for the Lobos or the Bison, this game is one you won’t want to miss.
What are your predictions for the New Mexico vs. North Dakota State game? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #LobosVsBison.