2010 Open Dates

[JSUBison]

FCS schools that share our open dates:

Sept 18:
Albany
Charleston Southern
Drake
Lamar
Liberty
Maine
McNeese
Montana State
Morehead State
Sacred Heart
Sam Houston :nod:
Southeast Louisiana
South Dakota

Sept 25
Davis
Charleston Southern
Coastal Carolina
Drake
Eastern Kentucky
Iona
Lamar
Liberty
McNeese
North Carolina Central
Northwestern State
Portland State
Southeast LA
South Dakota

Oct 30
Lamar
North Carolina Central

[aces1180]

I vote for Maine and/or McNeese St.

[Tatanka]

I vote for Maine and/or McNeese St.

++ and ++++++++++

[westnodak93bison]

my first choice would be Sam Houston to get revenge and 2nd would be McNeese

[Bison101]

McNeese and EKU....

[tjbison]

Mcneese and USD:hide:

[westnodak93bison]

I actually talked to a Sam Houston grad a couple days ago at the Hooters in Bismarck. We talked about the Walker vs. Bomar 2007 game, kind of fun. If we are gonna continue recruiting in the Houston area Sam Houston would be a good team to play often.

[Mr. Burgundy]

It would be fun to play USD. Just for fun....

[BisBison]

It would be fun to play USD. Just for fun....

This^^^ not only just for fun, but to dis our little friends downstream.

[TheBisonator]

We should get Maine to come here to redo the game that was cancelled because of 9/11.

[4mcruenomore]

Morehead State, so idiot people in ND and MN are confused.

[Tatanka]

Morehead State, so idiot people in ND and MN are confused.

Can I change my vote? THIS.

$100 says that the Forum wouldn't even pick up on the difference until after they ran the Bison Game Day page through the presses.

[rutlandbison]

Sacred Heart/Drake and Portland State.

[DjKyRo]

Why FCS? Let's see what FBS schools are down. :nod:

[devin45k]

It would be fun to play USD. Just for fun....

I think it would be fun because I know it would make UND fans that want to play us grumpy! :nod:

[NDSUDude]

Why FCS? Let's see what FBS schools are down. :nod:
:nod: :nod: :nod:
This is what I was thinking, lets get some national airtime

[ndsubison1]

We MUST play a cupcake on Sept. 18.... we start the season at Kansas then at UNI... can you imagine what this place will be like if we start 0-3?

[TbonZach]

Morehead State, so idiot people in ND and MN are confused.

:hide: When I first read this I was like "WTF? Why would we play the Dragons?" Then I realized my mistake a few seconds later.

[devin45k]

We MUST play a cupcake on Sept. 18.... we start the season at Kansas then at UNI... can you imagine what this place will be like if we start 0-3?

I agree...we need to get our program some wins before we think big again!

[TheBisonator]

We MUST play a cupcake on Sept. 18.... we start the season at Kansas then at UNI... can you imagine what this place will be like if we start 0-3?

Exactly right. I was thinking:

9/18 - Sacred Heart
9/25 - North Carolina Central

We need to start 2-2, cause I don't think we win either of the first two.

UND and USD should be out of the question for next year, due to our need for some easier DI wins.

[Tatanka]

UND and USD should be out of the question for next year, due to our need for some easier DI wins.

Not that I want to see either of these two play the Bison, but your reasoning strikes me as odd.

[DjKyRo]

Not that I want to see either of these two play the Bison, but your reasoning strikes me as odd.

I agree. Watering down our schedule with "easy D1 wins" isn't going to help us out - that won't help us get to the playoffs, and if it comes to a tiebreaker for an MVC championship, SoS is going to kill us.

I say a schedule of 11 legit games beats 2 tough OoC games, 7 conf. games and 1 cupcake anytime.

[North Side]

Exactly right. I was thinking:

9/18 - Sacred Heart
9/25 - North Carolina Central

We need to start 2-2, cause I don't think we win either of the first two.

UND and USD should be out of the question for next year, due to our need for some easier DI wins.

I agree I think the team needs some confidence being down 0 and 3 isnt the way to start. I much rather play easy teams and get a couple wins under our belt, plus those teams hopefully wont be as big or physical as a Big 12 team or any upper level FCS team a.k.a. we play Sacred Heart less chance for players (starters) to get hurt. We all know that happened WAY too much this year.

Look at SDSU this year... i really think their schedule helped keep the team somewhat healthy and also kept confidence and hopes high. I would love if the Bison would start the season with Indiana St. or a weaker team in the MVFC. and play their FBS team in the middle of the season.Too bad it looks like we are going to have a top heavy schedule for the next couple years..

[TheBisonator]

I agree. Watering down our schedule with "easy D1 wins" isn't going to help us out - that won't help us get to the playoffs, and if it comes to a tiebreaker for an MVC championship, SoS is going to kill us.

I say a schedule of 11 legit games beats 2 tough OoC games, 7 conf. games and 1 cupcake anytime.

How is it gonna look if we start 1-3 or 0-4?? This is a growing team. They are not at the peak of the recruiting cycle yet. They need some easier wins. Sacred Heart and NC Central will give us that. What wins do you honestly see us getting if we start out with Kansas, Northern Iowa, McNeese State and UC Davis??

[Tatanka]

How is it gonna look if we start 1-3 or 0-4?? This is a growing team. They are not at the peak of the recruiting cycle yet. They need some easier wins. Sacred Heart and NC Central will give us that. What wins do you honestly see us getting if we start out with Kansas, Northern Iowa, McNeese State and UC Davis??

Sounds like 4-0 to me!

http://i596.photobucket.com/albums/tt48/rawr414/thohno.gif

[JSUBison]

I just wanted to point out that Sacred Heart and NDSU are no longer listed as having Sept 18th open.

This is where I pulled the information.

http://www.footballscoop.com/?page_id=62

This fits in with past history of scheduling a weak northeast team. Wait and see I guess.

[onbison09]

I agree I think the team needs some confidence being down 0 and 3 isnt the way to start. I much rather play easy teams and get a couple wins under our belt, plus those teams hopefully wont be as big or physical as a Big 12 team or any upper level FCS team a.k.a. we play Sacred Heart less chance for players (starters) to get hurt. We all know that happened WAY too much this year.

Look at SDSU this year... i really think their schedule helped keep the team somewhat healthy and also kept confidence and hopes high. I would love if the Bison would start the season with Indiana St. or a weaker team in the MVFC. and play their FBS team in the middle of the season.Too bad it looks like we are going to have a top heavy schedule for the next couple years..

Remember Central Connecticut? :hide:

[TheBisonator]

I just wanted to point out that Sacred Heart and NDSU are no longer listed as having Sept 18th open.

This is where I pulled the information.

http://www.footballscoop.com/?page_id=62

This fits in with past history of scheduling a weak northeast team. Wait and see I guess.

Interesting...

I hope we can also get that 9/25 date filled with a home game. Maybe NC Central for that 2nd win.

[EndZoneQB]

I would love if the Bison would start the season with Indiana St. or a weaker team in the MVFC. and play their FBS team in the middle of the season. Too bad it looks like we are going to have a top heavy schedule for the next couple years..

You need to remember, that as a general rule, later in the season is reserved for conference play.

[bisoneer]

I suggest playing Sam Houston again to "keep that going" and lets have Davis come here and play on our turf.

[#1BISONFAN ASHLEY]

Montana State and South Dakota!!!

[BisBison]

I suggest playing Sam Houston again to "keep that going" and lets have Davis come here and play on our turf.

Love that idea, but too expensive of a return road trip.

[ndsubison1]

good idea to be scheduling texas schools every few years since we recruit down there... i'm all for scheduling southland schools every 3-4 years

[Jdubs21]

It would be fun to play USD. Just for fun....

but wouldnt that make us hypocrites, cuz the reason we wouldnt play UND is because they arent playoff elligible and would hurt our power rankings playing a team out of our division and what not? dont get me wrong it would be a fun game but sounds odd to me i guess

[Twentysix]

Lets play liberty twice.

They wont be a beat the eff out of you team but they arent a cupcake.

Liberty and maine imo.

Or else a texas-cali team.

We also need to start getting some games with southern conf.

G Southern could be a door opener.

If you are in the MVC and play the southern and win your playoff chances skyrocket. Beating the top 8 works in your favor at the begging of the year...the top 8 get respect like the top 5 of the MVC. They can royaly suck but are still in top 30 consideration. Just like we were :P.

App-Elon-Furman-Chatty-G.Southern-Samford-Citadel-Wofford-UNI-SDSU-SIU-WIU-NDSU(maybe YSU but not lately.)

I would think they would all want to play us being from the MVC. Definitly comes with a trip charge though.

[stevdock]

I agree about getting into the Southern conference a bit more, but I'd much rather beat the crap out of the CAA. I hate that they think they rule FCS and would love to knock them off their perch.

[tjbison]

I agree about getting into the Southern conference a bit more, but I'd much rather beat the crap out of the CAA. I hate that they think they rule FCS and would love to knock them off their perch.


we need ALOT of help for this to start the CAA is the top Conference in FCS and one of the top in DI.

But I agree would love to play those teams

[Tatanka]

:smh: .

[56BISON73]

I want to see GOOD competition. No cup cakes-tomato cans. Rollover wins help nobody.

[td577]

I would be completely in favor of USD. In the long run, we need to restart local rivalries and that does include UND. USD would be a nice team to start playing again. Also, if the future of NDSU is about getting the opportunity to play big name schools, then it is imperative NDSU gives the same chance to lesser teams. You get what you give.

[Gully]

I think Maine would be fine. Not a powerhouse certainly, but not a DII or non-scholly either.

[56BISON73]

I would be completely in favor of USD. In the long run, we need to restart local rivalries and that does include UND. USD would be a nice team to start playing again. Also, if the future of NDSU is about getting the opportunity to play big name schools, then it is imperative NDSU gives the same chance to lesser teams. You get what you give.

All good points!!!

[TheBisonator]

I would be completely in favor of USD. In the long run, we need to restart local rivalries and that does include UND. USD would be a nice team to start playing again. Also, if the future of NDSU is about getting the opportunity to play big name schools, then it is imperative NDSU gives the same chance to lesser teams. You get what you give.

Didn't we kill USD the last time we played them in 2003?? I don't remember that game well.

[td577]

Didn't we kill USD the last time we played them in 2003?? I don't remember that game well.

Then it is even more important we play them and help them get better. While it is sure fun when we beat local teams, a bright future of FCS football in the Dakotas depends on all the teams being competitive.

[SDbison]

Didn't we kill USD the last time we played them in 2003?? I don't remember that game well.
We also lost to USD somewhere around 2000 in a triple overtime game in Vermillion where the Bison looked pathetic.......kind of like this year.

[Bison Dan]

http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/261453/group/home/

[56BISON73]

"""Eventually the UND thing will work out,” Taylor said. “The other thing is UND is a longer-term deal and there are other sports in the mix. The UND thing is more complicated.”""""

[SDbison]

We also lost to USD somewhere around 2000 in a triple overtime game in Vermillion where the Bison looked pathetic.......kind of like this year.
Here is NDSU's results in most recent games played against USD:
1998 W 51-7 in Fargo
1999 W 45-14 in Vermillion
2000 W 45-20 in Fargo
2001 W 42-10 in Fargo
2002 L 37-40 (4 OT) in Vermillion
2003 W 35-3 in Fargo
Pretty much domination......but we used to do the same thing to SDSU. :mad:

[stevdock]

Wasn't there a game in Vermillion in either 96 or 97 that a playoff chance was riding on that game and either we scored with little time left to win and clinch a spot or we lost and we lost our playoff chance??

[BraxtonT]

Wasn't there a game in Vermillion in either 96 or 97 that a playoff chance was riding on that game and either we scored with little time left to win and clinch a spot or we lost and we lost our playoff chance??

1997 in Vermillion. The 'Yotes had a nice lead, but then did the 'prevent defense' thing to allow the Bison to send the game into OT. NDSU won the game and did make the playoffs that year because of this win.

We got hosed on an inadvertent whistle call at Northwest Missouri State in the playoffs to end the season.

[tony]

1997 in Vermillion. The 'Yotes had a nice lead, but then did the 'prevent defense' thing to allow the Bison to send the game into OT. NDSU won the game and did make the playoffs that year because of this win.

We got hosed on an inadvertent whistle call at Northwest Missouri State in the playoffs to end the season.

Heh, I remember that game. It might be the only game in Bison history where we were on the good side of a last second field goal. I think Aaron Pederson (sp?) had to kick a 50-yarder to send it into OT. I still don't think NDSU has ever won a game that was decided by a last second field goal (we sure have lost a lot of games on them) but getting one to send it into overtime is the next best thing.

[aces1180]

Heh, I remember that game. It might be the only game in Bison history where we were on the good side of a last second field goal. I think Aaron Pederson (sp?) had to kick a 50-yarder to send it into OT. I still don't think NDSU has ever won a game that was decided by a last second field goal (we sure have lost a lot of games on them) but getting one to send it into overtime is the next best thing.

I recognize the ending who you are talking about, but it wasn't AP...He joined the squad in 1998.

[Leonardite]

I recognize the ending who you are talking about, but it wasn't AP...He joined the squad in 1998.

Was it Ken Johnson?

[bisonmike2]

Was it Ken Johnson?

I believe it was Grant Van something-something. He was a kicker from SF Washington. I think he married a basketball player or something. Could be wrong.

[tony]

Was it Ken Johnson?

It looks like Ken Johnson would have been the guy who kicked it (he signed in 1996) - of course, now I'm wondering if I'm thinking of the right game at all. :)

[lakesbison]

my old roomie.
Ludvig Millfors?

[Leonardite]

It looks like Ken Johnson would have been the guy who kicked it (he signed in 1996) - of course, now I'm wondering if I'm thinking of the right game at all. :)

I'm all mixed up too. I remember Ken Johnson drilling a 55-yarder or something ridiculous like that in Brookings one year in a game we choked away (before that was a yearly occurrence). We had to back our way into the playoffs that year, which makes me think that it might be the same season we squeaked by USD. I know Johnson wasn't on the team for more than a year or two, though, so BisonMike might well be right. I need a beer...

[tjbison]

I just wanted to point out that Sacred Heart and NDSU are no longer listed as having Sept 18th open.

This is where I pulled the information.

http://www.footballscoop.com/?page_id=62

This fits in with past history of scheduling a weak northeast team. Wait and see I guess.

Just doing some checking to see if anything changed and this is still correct. We are on the Oct. 30th but not on the Sept. 18th. there are some teams that would be fun to bring in!! Wofford, Maine! but chances are its a fluffy oh well Sept. is a great Tailgate month

[cvbison1]

You guys are NOT going to believe who the last open game on our schedule is against.

[56BISON73]

You guys are NOT going to believe who the last open game on our schedule is against.

The university of BYE :D

[DjKyRo]

The university of BYE :D

Brigham Young-Engineering?! Shit.

[X-Factor]

the University of Notre Dame. Oh, you mean that other school :hide:

[DjKyRo]

the University of Notre Dame. Oh, you mean that other school :hide:

holy smokes, where'd this get posted?

(for the record I'd be stoked if this were/is going down)

[GRAFTONBISON]

According to the Schedule tab on championshipsubdivision.com there are 30 teams w/ an open date on Sept. 18th. Not many look very attractive.:(

Montana St. (not likely)
Cal Poly :nod:
Savannah St.
Brown
Bethune-Cookman
Delaware St.
Florida A&M
Howard
Morgan St.
NC Central
SC State
Bryant
Monmouth
Sacred Heart
Wagner
Austin Peay
Murray St.
Tenn. Tech
Bucknell
Butler
Campbell
Davidson
Dayton
Drake
Marist
Morehead St.
Valparaiso
Wofford (already 6 road games)
Ark-Pine Bluff
Texas St.

[Bison bison]

A game against Drake would be awesome IMO!

[Scooter1]

My vote is for Sacred Heart or SC State.

[Facts]

I vote Morehead State. Didn't we play them in the DII playoffs a few times??

[BadlandsBison]

I vote Morehead State. Didn't we play them in the DII playoffs a few times??

And its a short drive;)

[Siouxfallsbison]

I think its going to be Drake.:hide:

[lakesbison]

yes I heard drake, and hopefully a basketball game as well.

[NDSUstudent]

Sounds like we could know by Wednesday....

http://www.areavoices.com/bisonmedia/?blog=70545

[HandoEX]

Drake would be sweet!

[TheBisonator]

I'd like to see Tennessee Tech come to the FFD.

[Bison bison]

yes I heard drake, and hopefully a basketball game as well.

now that is some smart thinkin' there lakes. did you consult with your bff norman einstein on that one?

(i kid, glad to see you back you sid hartman on training wheels you)

[bisonmike2]

I don't care who it is, I just don't want to be 0-2 returning to the FFD.

[TheBisonator]

I don't care who it is, I just don't want to be 0-2 returning to the FFD.

It almost seems to me like UNI will be a tougher game than Kansas.

[ndsubison1]

How about a 2-for-1 with Butler in football and basketball? ;) :)

[bisoningrandforks]

I hope its the Maine Blackbears!!!.......Didnt we have a home game with them 5-6 years ago but was canceled because of weather?

[Tatanka]

I hope its the Maine Blackbears!!!.......Didnt we have a home game with them 5-6 years ago but was canceled because of weather?

No, it was cancelled because of 9/11.

[IndyBison]

How about a 2-for-1 with Butler in football and basketball? ;) :)

I would like that one! Butler is non-scholarship so they are essentially a D3 football team. They did win the "bowl" game for the non-scholarship schools last year so they have a decent team. I don't think the Bison would have any trouble beating them though.

I would LOVE to see the Bison play Butler in basketball at Hinkle. My neighbor is the play-by-play guy for Butler basketball and works in their athletic department. I keep telling him they have to get the Bison on the schedule!

[Twentysix]

McNeese or Liberty.

[Tatanka]

McNeese or Liberty.

McNeese would be HUGE. :nod:

[BisonNeil]

McNeese would be HUGE. :nod:

I agree, however, since the Bison open with KS and UNI, I doubt very much Gene is looking at saddling the 2010 Bison with a 2009 playoff team for the home opener. Probably more like Drake or Albany so there is an easy win at home. The single win at home in 09 needs to be reversed and McNeese isn't a good option to get that done.

[Tatanka]

I agree, however, since the Bison open with KS and UNI, I doubt very much Gene is looking at saddling the 2010 Bison with a 2009 playoff team for the home opener. Probably more like Drake or Albany so there is an easy win at home. The single win at home in 09 needs to be reversed and McNeese isn't a good option to get that done.
truth .

[IzzyFlexion]

I agree, however, since the Bison open with KS and UNI, I doubt very much Gene is looking at saddling the 2010 Bison with a 2009 playoff team for the home opener. Probably more like Drake or Albany so there is an easy win at home. The single win at home in 09 needs to be reversed and McNeese isn't a good option to get that done.

And so it goes with that double edged sword. Clearly one of the objectives in building the program involves scheduling big schools like Kansas. Subsequently, this puts Gene behind the 8 ball since bringing in a quality FCS program to Fargo sets up a precarious situation regarding overall season success. Unfortunate, but you're right, probably best to focus on a lower level team.:(
The good news is that because it would be the home opener, there should be enough excitement to fill the FFD.

[GOB1SON]

I agree, however, since the Bison open with KS and UNI, I doubt very much Gene is looking at saddling the 2010 Bison with a 2009 playoff team for the home opener. Probably more like Drake or Albany so there is an easy win at home. The single win at home in 09 needs to be reversed and McNeese isn't a good option to get that done.

I would rather play a good team, like McNeese and not win, than play a pansy, like Wagner again.

We aren't gonna win a NC by scheduling non-scholly or DII competition. Bring in the good teams and see the brand of ball they play.

[NDSUstudent]

I would rather play a good team, like McNeese and not win, than play a pansy, like Wagner again.

We aren't gonna win a NC by scheduling non-scholly or DII competition. Bring in the good teams and see the brand of ball they play.

Wagner is a scholly team, we haven't played a non-scholly team since Valpo.

For those who want an FBS ever year we have to play the Wagner's of the world, they don't require a return trip to their stadium like a top tier FCS team would.

[Bison"FANatic"]

I would rather play a good team, like McNeese and not win, than play a pansy, like Wagner again.

We aren't gonna win a NC by scheduling non-scholly or DII competition. Bring in the good teams and see the brand of ball they play.

You have to be in the playoffs first though. I will take a "lower level" FCS game for a tune up and to work out kinks. It is not like we don't see any top level teams with our conference.

[BisonAccountant44]

I would rather play a good team, like McNeese and not win, than play a pansy, like Wagner again.

We aren't gonna win a NC by scheduling non-scholly or DII competition. Bring in the good teams and see the brand of ball they play.


I'd like to see someone in the middle. A team that will put up a fight for a half before laying down and getting beat by 21 or so :D .

[Thunder_Struck]

What ever happened to the slogan "Bring on the compitition"?

[BisonAccountant44]

What ever happened to the slogan "Bring on the compitition"?

That only counts when we have a team capable of 10-1 :hide:

http://timothyzhu.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/triumph01.jpg

I keed I keed

[TheBisonator]

Anyone know if we'll hear anything today??

If it's a team we're paying a guarantee to, I'm thinking it could be NC Central, due to their availability on that date for a long time now. Plus they fit the profile of a team we need to schedule at the FFD early on. Full-scholly team in a decent conference, but a pretty bad team who we can beat handily.

[BisonNeil]

I'd like to see someone in the middle. A team that will put up a fight for a half before laying down and getting beat by 21 or so :D .

I like the way you think. Good one!

[SiouxFan]

Anyone know if we'll hear anything today??

If it's a team we're paying a guarantee to, I'm thinking it could be NC Central, due to their availability on that date for a long time now. Plus they fit the profile of a team we need to schedule at the FFD early on. Full-scholly team in a decent conference, but a pretty bad team who we can beat handily.
NCCU is independent and in the transition to FCS. They are pretty bad as you stated - you would much rather have Drake come to the Dome. They are non-scholly but are competitive and a known entity in these parts.

[SDbison]

NCCU is independent and in the transition to FCS. They are pretty bad as you stated - you would much rather have Drake come to the Dome. They are non-scholly but are competitive and a known entity in these parts.
When I hear Drake I think of track and maybe basketball.......definately not football. Come on Gene and Craig......BRING ON THE COMPETITION. Doesn't have to be top FCS, but please not this worthless lower level crap. Could just as well hold and green vs gold scrimmage.
Why isn't Cal Poly considered?

[NDSUstudent]

When I hear Drake I think of track and maybe basketball.......definately not football. Come on Gene and Craig......BRING ON THE COMPETITION. Doesn't have to be top FCS, but please not this worthless lower level crap. Could just as well hold and green vs gold scrimmage.
Why isn't Cal Poly considered?

Because we don't want to travel to SLO.

Considering we play in the MVC and have Kansas on the schedule, what is wrong with having six home games and games with USD and Drake? Heck, USD beat Cal Poly at SLO last year.

[cyborgg]

When I hear Drake I think of track and maybe basketball.......definately not football. Come on Gene and Craig......BRING ON THE COMPETITION. Doesn't have to be top FCS, but please not this worthless lower level crap. Could just as well hold and green vs gold scrimmage. Why isn't Cal Poly considered?

I think saying Drake is worthless lower level crap is pretty harsh.

[SDbison]

I think saying Drake is worthless lower level crap is pretty harsh.
aaaahhhhhhh......cause in football they are!

[jacks1]

I think saying Drake is worthless lower level crap is pretty harsh.


...they don't even offer scholarships for FB, do they?

[Mr. Burgundy]

...they don't even offer scholarships for FB, do they?

Either did Wisconsin LaCross or Stephens Point or whatever team that was.

[Grizzled]

Bring on the competition, except if they might beat us cause we play in too hard of a conference. So lets schedule garbage teams to get an easy win at home. I don't buy the tough conference part. Besides UNI, SDSU, SIU and maybe Illinois St. no one in our conference really impresses me and I don't think any of those other teams are teams we should ever lose to. The California teams and Southern Utah are farther along than most of those teams in my opinion. Just cause we had one down year doesn't mean we need to schedule a patty cake and take the Montana way of scheduling that we all made fun of in the past.

[bisoningrandforks]

Tatanka.....thxs!.....how could I forget that!!!....age I guess!!

[cyborgg]

aaaahhhhhhh......cause in football they are!

That's fine if you think so, but you'd be pretty darn upset if Kansas dropped your game because they felt playing FCS teams was beneath them.

[SDbison]

That's fine if you think so, but you'd be pretty darn upset if Kansas dropped your game because they felt playing FCS teams was beneath them.
Non-scholarship (Drake) jumping up to play 63 scholarship FCS (NDSU) is nothing like 63 scholarship FCS (NDSU) jumping up to play 85 scholarship FBS (Kansas). Get the difference, or do I have to do the subtraction for you?

[jacks1]

Either did Wisconsin LaCross or Stephens Point or whatever team that was.

I wasn't being smackish...was actually asking a serious question. I don't think scheduling Drake would be the worst thing ever....a win is a win. I think a lot of 'casual' fans might think Drake is a pretty decent football program by name recognition alone.

[tjbison]

Well one thing is for sure...............IT'LL BE A WHALE OF A GAME



Whoever it is

[cyborgg]

Non-scholarship (Drake) jumping up to play 63 scholarship FCS (NDSU) is nothing like 63 scholarship FCS (NDSU) jumping up to play 85 scholarship FBS (Kansas). Get the difference, or do I have to do the subtraction for you?

Drake is FCS, they just don't give football scholarships, just like the Ivy League doesn't, but I guess playing other FCS football teams is below you.

[ndsubison1]

Bring on the competition, except if they might beat us cause we play in too hard of a conference. So lets schedule garbage teams to get an easy win at home. I don't buy the tough conference part. Besides UNI, SDSU, SIU and maybe Illinois St. no one in our conference really impresses me and I don't think any of those other teams are teams we should ever lose to. The California teams and Southern Utah are farther along than most of those teams in my opinion. Just cause we had one down year doesn't mean we need to schedule a patty cake and take the Montana way of scheduling that we all made fun of in the past.

You realize we start the season at Kansas and Northern Iowa? Drake is a perfect fit to play at home the weekend after. When was the last time Montana actually had some competition in their conference other than EWU the past two seasons? The MVC is a step ahead of the Big Sky IMO and there's much better competition in it. Only makes sense to play a patsy at home.

[Bison bison]

The California teams and Southern Utah are farther along than most of those teams in my opinion.

Seriously?

[GOB1SON]

You realize we start the season at Kansas and Northern Iowa? Drake is a perfect fit to play at home the weekend after. When was the last time Montana actually had some competition in their conference other than EWU the past two seasons? The MVC is a step ahead of the Big Sky IMO and there's much better competition in it. Only makes sense to play a patsy at home.

I reallize that we open at Kansas and then at Northern Iowa, however I believe that you don't build a dominant program by scheduling patsies.

We already have weaker teams (in 09 we were one of them, but that will change) in the MVFC that we can beat up on.

You become the best by consistently beating the best competition.

Start scheduling the good teams now so these boys can see how winning programs act and play.

Just my two cents.

[Facts]

Bring on the competition, except if they might beat us cause we play in too hard of a conference. So lets schedule garbage teams to get an easy win at home. I don't buy the tough conference part. Besides UNI, SDSU, SIU and maybe Illinois St. no one in our conference really impresses me and I don't think any of those other teams are teams we should ever lose to. The California teams and Southern Utah are farther along than most of those teams in my opinion. Just cause we had one down year doesn't mean we need to schedule a patty cake and take the Montana way of scheduling that we all made fun of in the past.

The "Montana way" seems to work exceptionally well for Montana. IMO, I hope NDSU will someday be as dominant at the FCS level as Montana has been.

[NDSUstudent]

We do have Montana, Montana State, and Georgia Southern on our future schedules to go along with two games vs USD(who was decent last year). I think Gene wants six home games this year after having just five this past season, not every team is going to be willing to come to Fargo first, I'm sure a lot of teams are looking for home games.

[EndZoneQB]

USD(who was decent last year)

66-7?? I rest my case.

[Grizzled]

The "Montana way" seems to work exceptionally well for Montana. IMO, I hope NDSU will someday be as dominant at the FCS level as Montana has been.

The "Montana way" was the butt of many jokes on this website but since we are doing it suddenly its ok.

[Bison Dan]

The "Montana way" was the butt of many jokes on this website but since we are doing it suddenly its ok.

You have to remember that the "Montana way" didn't have ANY big non conference games. We have Kansas this year and great schedules in the future years. Montana, Montana St. Georgia S. MN, Iowa St. just to name a few. With the young team we have a lessor team this year wouldn't be the worst thing in the world.

[Grizzled]

You have to remember that the "Montana way" didn't have ANY big non conference games. We have Kansas this year and great schedules in the future years. Montana, Montana St. Georgia S. MN, Iowa St. just to name a few. With the young team we have a lessor team this year wouldn't be the worst thing in the world.

Agreed. You make a good point about future schedules. With a young team though I wouldn't mind seeing them play a little tougher schedule. I do understand though that it can be tough to get some of those better teams into Fargo. I sometimes forget how hard it can be to get those teams into Fargo.

[HandoEX]

The "Montana way" was the butt of many jokes on this website but since we are doing it suddenly its ok.

We've had 1 low level team on our home schedule for years and years and so do the top FCS teams. The Montana Way is replacing FBS games with piss-poor FCS schools. Villanova played Lehigh last year and won the national championship.

[Grizzled]

We've had 1 low level team on our home schedule for years and years and so do the top FCS teams. The Montana Way is replacing FBS games with piss-poor FCS schools. Villanova played Lehigh last year and won the national championship.

Yes, we already have that with USD.

[Bison"FANatic"]

We've had 1 low level team on our home schedule for years and years and so do the top FCS teams. The Montana Way is replacing FBS games with piss-poor FCS schools. Villanova played Lehigh last year and won the national championship.

Exactly Hando

They only play them at home and didn't travel away from their home field for any games except in conference. That was the Montana way. Just because you play a few lower level FCS teams is not even close to the Montana way. Now if we would not travel to Kansas this year or have traveled to SHSU and Iowa State last year you might have a argument that we are scheduling the Montana way. Since we are leaving the confines of the Fargodome and scheduling one cupcake at home we are not scheduling "The Montana Way". The vast majority of the time we open up the home schedule with a cupcake and we have done it for years. I have been happy with the "NDSU way".

09 - Wagner
08 - Austin Peay
07 - Steven F Austin
06 - Concordia St Paul
05 - Arkansas Monticello
04 - Valpraiso

[Facts]

Here's my point. If we're winning FCS National Titles and regularily getting deep into the post-season, does anybody really care who we play on the way there?

I'd love to always play the top notch competition, but I don't really care as long as we have positive results in the post-season (*and man do I ever want to attend that FCS National Title banner raising ceremony! :nod: ).








*note to self: buy a slick-like sweater for national title banner raising ceremony

[DjKyRo]

Here's my point. If we're winning FCS National Titles and regularily getting deep into the post-season, does anybody really care who we play on the way there?

I'd love to always play the top notch competition, but I don't really care as long as we have positive results in the post-season (*and man do I ever want to attend that FCS National Title banner raising ceremony! :nod: ).








*note to self: buy a slick-like sweater for national title banner raising ceremony

The man does have a point. We need to establish ourselves securely in the running for the playoffs before we start dissecting our scheduling, IMO.

[Herd]

The "Montana way" was the butt of many jokes on this website but since we are doing it suddenly its ok.

No, we are not doing it the Montana way. Montana doesn't play FBS (god forbid a game where they wouldn't be favored) and DII and NAIA are fair game. Do not compare NDSU to the MT way. Iowa must have kicked their butt, cause they haven't wanted any part of the FBS level since.

The MT way: Stay at home, low risk games, pay down-not up, get as many wins as possible. Hey, they're good, but the MT way makes no sense to me for a team like Montana. But, that's been the Montana way. Let's be honest

If I were a Griz fan, I'd be begging for some FBS competition once in awhile. As a biosn fan, I love the MVFC, but I really love the FBS games to be honest.

[NDSUstudent]

If the guarantee isn't at least $500k Montana won't play an FBS.

I don't get the USD cupcake talk, they beat Cal Poly on the road last year and were 5-5 overall. I know UNI rolled them, but they would probably beat up on the likes of Wagner, CCSU, and Austin Peay.

[Herd]

If the guarantee isn't at least $500k Montana won't play an FBS.

I don't get the USD cupcake talk, they beat Cal Poly on the road last year and were 5-5 overall. I know UNI rolled them, but they would probably beat up on the likes of Wagner, CCSU, and Austin Peay.

Yeah, so what. If I'm a Griz fan I just want some competition. Fans don't care about guarantees.

[NDSUstudent]

I'm just saying they won't play an FBS unless some team beaks the bank.

You do have to give the Griz some credit, they have games against us, App State, Cal Poly, UC Davis, and McNeese St over the next five or six years.

[Herd]

I'm just saying they won't play an FBS unless some team beaks the bank.

You do have to give the Griz some credit, they have games against us, App State, Cal Poly, UC Davis, and McNeese St over the next five or six years.

Ya, and i'm just saying that as a fan, no FBS really sucks.

[NDSUstudent]

Ya, and i'm just saying that as a fan, no FBS really sucks.

No doubt, I'm sure their fans could take over Wyoming, Colorado State or Washington State if given the chance. Their fans are missing out on some fun.

[4mcruenomore]

Why are UC Davis and Cal Poly such a big deal to Griz people, like look at us, we are scheduling tough teams. Didn't NDSU reguarly schedule them when we were in the GW conference? Isn't UND doing this right now? I just don't get that kind of talk. Can someone explain it to me?

[Tatanka]

Why are UC Davis and Cal Poly such a big deal to Griz people, like look at us, we are scheduling tough teams. Didn't NDSU reguarly schedule them when we were in the GW conference? Isn't UND doing this right now? I just don't get that kind of talk. Can someone explain it to me?

Davis and Poly are extremely tough compared to the usual non-con fare in Grizland.

[DjKyRo]

Iowa must have kicked their butt, cause they haven't wanted any part of the FBS level since.


41-7.....:innocent:

[56BISON73]

41-7.....:innocent:

I was at that game. MT actually played them pretty good for 2 quarters. After that it wasnt pretty.

[Grizzled]

I see your guys' points but we'll just have to agree to disagree. I'd rather watch a game that will challenge the team even if we have to go on the road than a game thats over by half and I know the players would much rather play in a game they actually have to gameplan for than play against Wagner or Central Conn. But I also understand there is much more that goes into scheduling and if all Gene had to do was type his wish list onto a message forum things would probably be different.

[DjKyRo]

I see your guys' points but we'll just have to agree to disagree. I'd rather watch a game that will challenge the team even if we have to go on the road than a game thats over by half and I know the players would much rather play in a game they actually have to gameplan for than play against Wagner or Central Conn. But I also understand there is much more that goes into scheduling and if all Gene had to do was type his wish list onto a message forum things would probably be different.

To a point I can agree Grizzizzle - with a young team especially a "week off" isn't going to help a whole lot. But in terms of a big game coming up or momentum or what have you, a 20+ win in Fargo before, say, UNI, SIU, SDSU (for purely rival-beating reasons) can do something to get the team and fans pumped for a big game. Obviously we don't necessarily need to play a cupcake to get that big win, but when it comes down to it, at least in a season like last year's its nice to get back to Bison domination.

I'll go with Facts's opinion here - so long as we get a crack at Chatty I could care less who we play to get there. 50-point win over a cupcake or 2-point victory over someone like Cal-Poly, Montana St., etc. Whatever gets us 8 wins and into the playoffs.

[4mcruenomore]

I watched the Griz/Iowa game, they were never in it IMO, the TD was even close. The WR I don't think even got in if it had been reviewed.
I also watched the Griz/Hawaii, that was a blow out also, Griz not even close. 30-12 L
NDSU at Wyo, right in it, NDSU at Iowa State, right in it.
Truth is, Griz don't play well away, or up.

[56BISON73]

I watched the Griz/Iowa game, they were never in it IMO, the TD was even close. The WR I don't think even got in if it had been reviewed.
I also watched the Griz/Hawaii, that was a blow out also, Griz not even close. 30-12 L
NDSU at Wyo, right in it, NDSU at Iowa State, right in it.
Truth is, Griz don't play well away, or up.

Never said they were ever in the game. If you would have watched the line play they matched up pretty good physically but Iowa was a tad bigger and eventually that came in to play. I was actually impressed with the phisicallity of MT.

[4mcruenomore]

Never said they were ever in the game. If you would have watched the line play they matched up pretty good physically but Iowa was a tad bigger and eventually that came in to play. I was actually impressed with the phisicallity of MT.

U of Mary has some big Lines too, but if they played in the FFD and lost 41-7, you would say they were never in it. Truth, and that pass with the WR trying to stretch it over the goal, I don't think he got it.

[SDbison]

Do we have to play suck ass teams to win by a few touchdowns now? Used to be the Bison would beat good teams by a sizable margin on a regular basis. Last good team NDSU beat badly was an FBS team at their place......that was Central Michigan.

Why can't NDSU find a middle of the pack FCS team to bring in for the home opener???????

[56BISON73]

Do we have to play suck ass teams to win by a few touchdowns now? Used to be the Bison would beat good teams by a sizable margin on a regular basis. Last good team NDSU beat badly was an FBS team at their place......that was Central Michigan.

Why can't NDSU find a middle of the pack FCS team to bring in for the home opener???????

SD
Because some are too worried about the Bison losing a football game instead of playing good solid football teams so they can make it to the playoffs.

[NDSUstudent]

I just want six home games....football season is too short to have just five home games.

[roadwarrior]

Why can't NDSU find a middle of the pack FCS team to bring in for the home opener???????

The problem is finding a team willing to come to Fargo for these games. Just because they have a common open date doesnt mean those teams are going to jump at the chance to play here. In fact, most of them wont even discuss it with Gene.

[Gully]

I'm all for a tough schedule but I think it's ok to have one easier game each year if it helps us have 6 home games. I don't think anyone can say our 2010 schedule is easy.

[SDbison]

I'm all for a tough schedule but I think it's ok to have one easier game each year if it helps us have 6 home games. I don't think anyone can say our 2010 schedule is easy.
Define easier? Does it have to be a non-scholly, likely bottom 10% Sagarin rated team?

[SDbison]

SD
Because some are too worried about the Bison losing a football game instead of playing good solid football teams so they can make it to the playoffs.
Yeah that win against Wagner last year really helped transition the team back into long run in the win column after losses to ISU and SHSU.:blush:

[Bison Dan]

Yeah that win against Wagner last year really helped transition the team back into long run in the win column after losses to ISU and SHSU.:blush:

The trouble about scheduling is if you pick a good team they always want a return game. Hard to do with our future schedule almost full and und wishing to get on our schedule. One night stands are harder to come by but preferred for this year.

[tjbison]

The trouble about scheduling is if you pick a good team they always want a return game. Hard to do with our future schedule almost full and und wishing to get on our schedule. One night stands are harder to come by but preferred for this year.

Sounds like my 2010 NY resolution!!:D

[Gully]

Define easier? Does it have to be a non-scholly, likely bottom 10% Sagarin rated team?

No, it doesn't have to be that low of a team. A weaker team from a solid FCS conference would also be fine by me. On the other hand I don't think it's the end of the world if one team of a very low level. Keep in mind that Gene can't force schools to play us, he has to work with who will play us on the dates that are open while trying to keep 6 home games if possible.

I'm not arguing that we should try to schedule super easy teams, just that I'm ok if we have one per season. I agree with the point others have made about competition making you better, that's why I really like the FBS games we schedule and the conference we're in.

[GOB1SON]

Is there a reason why we can't play 12 games a year?

[NDSUstudent]

Is there a reason why we can't play 12 games a year?

It is only allowed in certain years, something to do with the amount of weeks during the football season, some years there are more weeks.

12 games every year was voted down so the playoffs could be expanded.

[56BISON73]

It is only allowed in certain years, something to do with the amount of weeks during the football season, some years there are more weeks.

12 games every year was voted down so the playoffs could be expanded.

Plus the NDSU strategy of not playing a 12th game so there could be a bye date. To rest up for the playoffs.

[Herd]

Why are UC Davis and Cal Poly such a big deal to Griz people, like look at us, we are scheduling tough teams. Didn't NDSU reguarly schedule them when we were in the GW conference? Isn't UND doing this right now? I just don't get that kind of talk. Can someone explain it to me?

Because they aren't DII, and they are actually decent competition. No self respecting DI FCS team wants to travel to Montana for a 1 time guarantee or a 2:1 unless they can't find games (ala Great West). Montana is a meaningful game for these schools, even if it is on Montana's terms. By the time teams get into a good conference situation, Montana's terms don't look as attractive. You asked . . !

[cyborgg]

I'm curious what teams are considered to be the top 20 FCS teams? Not last year but just in general.

[NDSUFan_Sav]

I'm curious what teams are considered to be the top 20 FCS teams? Not last year but just in general.

I think SDSU's gotta be up there I mean they did make the playoffs last year ;)

[HandoEX]

I'm curious what teams are considered to be the top 20 FCS teams? Not last year but just in general.
IMO, over the last 3-5 years in no particular order...
Southern Illinois
Northern Iowa
Richmond
Villanova
Appalacian State
James Madison
Montana
McNeese State
Cal Poly
Weber State
William and Mary
Wofford
Eastern Washington
South Dakota State

[SDbison]

IMO, over the last 3-5 years in no particular order...
Southern Illinois
Northern Iowa
Richmond
Villanova
Appalacian State
James Madison
Montana
McNeese State
Cal Poly
Weber State
William and Mary
Wofford
Eastern Washington
South Dakota State
If you are talking last 3 to 5 years SDSU doesn't belong on this list. They lost to an NAIA team at home during that time. They might deserve to be there if you are talking last 1 or 2 years.

[HandoEX]

If you are talking last 3 to 5 years SDSU doesn't belong on this list. They lost to an NAIA team at home during that time. They might deserve to be there if you are talking last 1 or 2 years.

It was a D3 team, hahahahahaha.

[GOB1SON]

Beating teams like Wagner might help us get into the playoffs, but it won't help us win any games in the playoffs.

You play up or down to your competition. Let's play up.

[Kermit]

Bad news: http://www.areavoices.com/bisonmedia/?blog=71090


It appears that 11th football game that athletic director Gene Taylor was trying to land last week is going poof. Taylor did not name the school, and we may never know who it was, but he said early last week that things were looking promising.

[TheBisonator]

Bad news: http://www.areavoices.com/bisonmedia/?blog=71090

Well that sucks ass...

[North Side]

Beating teams like Wagner might help us get into the playoffs, but it won't help us win any games in the playoffs.


I see your point, but you could argue that there is less risk of injury in playing Wagner. If you get up enough in the 2nd half most of the starters will sit out. Its basically a tune up game for next weeks game. Although didnt we have a some injuries in the Wagner game? I cant remeber who? It bad when you cant remeber who was hurt when just to many of them last season.

[IzzyFlexion]

I see your point, but you could argue that there is less risk of injury in playing Wagner. If you get up enough in the 2nd half most of the starters will sit out. Its basically a tune up game for next weeks game. Although didnt we have a some injuries in the Wagner game? I cant remeber who? It bad when you cant remeber who was hurt when just to many of them last season.

Also, if I remember correctly, we had an s-load of players hurt in the Central Connecticut game the previous year as well.

[ndsubison1]

With the team we've had the past couple of seasons and opening the season @ Kansas and Northern Iowa, I just don't see how we could not play a lower level FCS team at home. USD isn't a push over. We also play at Missouri State and Illinois State. Both upstart programs. SIU at home. SDSU at home. At Youngstown, which is definitely no easy task.

[Hammersmith]

I'm curious what teams are considered to be the top 20 FCS teams? Not last year but just in general.

I spent way too much time on this, but the question got me curious.

Averaging the GPI places since 2002(8 years), these are the top 20:

Montana
Appalachian St
Northern Iowa
Massachusetts
Southern Illinois
James Madison
New Hampshire
Furman
Villanova
Delaware
Eastern Washington
Wofford
Montana State
South Dakota State*
North Dakota State*
Harvard
Georgia Southern
Richmond
McNeese State
Maine

*six years of data


Honarable Mentions would go to some schools that fell just outside the top 20, and one that has some serious history:

William & Mary
Cal Poly
UC Davis
Youngstown State
Grambling


This is also why some of us still think the MVFC is one of the top conferences. It places 56% of its schools in the top-25, compared to 58% for the CAA(7 of 12), 44% for the Southern(4 of 9), and 33% for the Big Sky(3 of 9).

[SDbison]

Bad news: http://www.areavoices.com/bisonmedia/?blog=71090
If it was Drake no big loss..........hopefuly Gene can actually find a scholarship program next time.

[SDbison]

With the team we've had the past couple of seasons and opening the season @ Kansas and Northern Iowa, I just don't see how we could not play a lower level FCS team at home. USD isn't a push over. We also play at Missouri State and Illinois State. Both upstart programs. SIU at home. SDSU at home. At Youngstown, which is definitely no easy task.
Except for Kansas, NDSU should be good enough to beat all those teams. My God are we starting to think small due to the couple bad seasons?

[SDbison]

I see your point, but you could argue that there is less risk of injury in playing Wagner. If you get up enough in the 2nd half most of the starters will sit out. Its basically a tune up game for next weeks game. Although didnt we have a some injuries in the Wagner game? I cant remeber who? It bad when you cant remeber who was hurt when just to many of them last season.
Well Central Connecticut or whoever was a warm up game and there were plenty of injuries during that game.
Question.......did you ever play football?
Crap, my high school and college coaches always preached that you give 100% all the time or you will get hurt. So as a player I could care less if I played against a weakling or an all-American. All this pussy talk makes me sick. Grow some balls!

[SDbison]

I spent way too much time on this, but the question got me curious.

Averaging the GPI places since 2002(7 years), these are the top 20:

Montana
Appalachian St
Northern Iowa
Massachusetts
Southern Illinois
James Madison
New Hampshire
Furman
Villanova
Delaware
Eastern Washington
Wofford
Montana State
South Dakota State*
North Dakota State*
Harvard
Georgia Southern
Richmond
McNeese State
Maine

*six years of data


Honarable Mentions would go to some schools that fell just outside the top 20, and one that has some serious history:

William & Mary
Cal Poly
UC Davis
Youngstown State
Grambling


This is also why some of us still think the MVFC is one of the top conferences. It places 56% of its schools in the top-25, compared to 58% for the CAA(7 of 12), 44% for the Southern(4 of 9), and 33% for the Big Sky(3 of 9).
Good research Hammersmith........surprised that SDSU eeked out ahead of NDSU after our two 10-1 seasons. Oh well we made up for those 2 good years with the last 2 seasons of sucking.
Reps to you Hammer!

[GOB1SON]

If we are going to alternate 5 and 6 home games, I want to play home and aways with good, solid programs. Games that will challenge us to play up to our status as an elite FCS program.

[NDSUstudent]

I don't care who we play as long as....

It is a home game and it against a DI team.

[56BISON73]

I hate games where the opponent has nothing to lose but everything to gain. Playing cupcakes dont help you get better and could cost you so much more if you lose.

[SDbison]

I hate games where the opponent has nothing to lose but everything to gain. Playing cupcakes dont help you get better and could cost you so much more if you lose.
amen.......

[EndZoneQB]

Well Central Connecticut or whoever was a warm up game and there were plenty of injuries during that game.
Question.......did you ever play football?
Crap, my high school and college coaches always preached that you give 100% all the time or you will get hurt. So as a player I could care less if I played against a weakling or an all-American. All this pussy talk makes me sick. Grow some balls!

Yep, it's when you're "walkin' around out there that you will get hurt, go hard and you'll deliver the hurt" or something along those lines. Like you said, you never get better by playing a cupcake....maybe the first game of the year, it shakes off the cobwebs...but 3 games in after 2 of your toughest opponents is just asking for 1.) A huge let down(especially if we are 1-1), 2.) False sense of achievement(See 2009 season) or 3.) a meaningless game that may hurt you in the eyes of the selection committee if we don't win the MVFC and are in the playoff hunt.

[SDbison]

Yep, it's when you're "walkin' around out there that you will get hurt, go hard and you'll deliver the hurt" or something along those lines. Like you said, you never get better by playing a cupcake....maybe the first game of the year, it shakes off the cobwebs...but 3 games in after 2 of your toughest opponents is just asking for 1.) A huge let down(especially if we are 1-1), 2.) False sense of achievement(See 2009 season) or 3.) a meaningless game that may hurt you in the eyes of the selection committee if we don't win the MVFC and are in the playoff hunt.
Thanks, glad to see someone understands what needs to be done.

[BlueBisonRock]

Well Central Connecticut or whoever was a warm up game and there were plenty of injuries during that game.
Question.......did you ever play football?
Crap, my high school and college coaches always preached that you give 100% all the time or you will get hurt. So as a player I could care less if I played against a weakling or an all-American. All this pussy talk makes me sick. Grow some balls!

I am with you on this one SD! When I coached the pups, I stressed three things that you also bring out here. 1) We will have the best conditioned team as being well conditioned helps minimize injury. 2) We will give 100 % all the time and have fun (my definition of fun was success and accomplishment) doing it. 3) When you make the big play, act like you have been there before.

[56BISON73]

He who hits the hardest gets hurt the least.

[56BISON73]

I am with you on this one SD! When I coached the pups, I stressed three things that you also bring out here. 1) We will have the best conditioned team as being well conditioned helps minimize injury. 2) We will give 100 % all the time and have fun (my definition of fun was success and accomplishment) doing it. 3) When you make the big play, act like you have been there before.

Amen!!!!!!!!

[cyborgg]

I spent way too much time on this, but the question got me curious.

Averaging the GPI places since 2002(8 years), these are the top 20:

Montana
Appalachian St
Northern Iowa
Massachusetts
Southern Illinois
James Madison
New Hampshire
Furman
Villanova
Delaware
Eastern Washington
Wofford
Montana State
South Dakota State*
North Dakota State*
Harvard
Georgia Southern
Richmond
McNeese State
Maine

*six years of data


Honarable Mentions would go to some schools that fell just outside the top 20, and one that has some serious history:

William & Mary
Cal Poly
UC Davis
Youngstown State
Grambling


This is also why some of us still think the MVFC is one of the top conferences. It places 56% of its schools in the top-25, compared to 58% for the CAA(7 of 12), 44% for the Southern(4 of 9), and 33% for the Big Sky(3 of 9).

Thanks for the research.

[cyborgg]

I hate games where the opponent has nothing to lose but everything to gain. Playing cupcakes dont help you get better and could cost you so much more if you lose.

Like Drake? I understand your view, but isn't this is a reason for Kansas or Iowa State to stop playing NDSU? If you want larger schools to play you, then I think you should be willing to do the same for schools smaller than you.

[56BISON73]

Like Drake? I understand your view, but isn't this is a reason for Kansas or Iowa State to stop playing NDSU? If you want larger schools to play you, then I think you should be willing to do the same for schools smaller than you.

I think there is a big difference between ISU playing NDSU and NDSU playing Wagner.

NDSU has had a good reputation for being very competitive and playing a good brand of football. NDSU has beaten 3 FBS schools. One being the defending MAC Champion and one school from the Big Ten.
Plus NDSU is a counter for the FBS schools because NDSU is fully funded.

So how does Wagner fall in to that comparison?

I do understand what you are saying. But there has to be an upside for both teams. Playing tomato cans for target practice is a no win situation for either team except for the score board and the win column.

[cyborgg]

I think there is a big difference between ISU playing NDSU and NDSU playing Wagner.

NDSU has had a good reputation for being very competitive and playing a good brand of football. NDSU has beaten 3 FBS schools. One being the defending MAC Champion and one school from the Big Ten.
Plus NDSU is a counter for the FBS schools because NDSU is fully funded.

So how does Wagner fall in to that comparison?

I do understand what you are saying. But there has to be an upside for both teams. Playing tomato cans for target practice serves no one well at all.

I don't know anything about Wagner, but I see you beat them 59-28. That's a good number but its hardly tomato cans for target practice. I think we'll just have to disagree on this one.

[Tatanka]

I don't know anything about Wagner, but I see you beat them 59-28. That's a good number but its hardly tomato cans for target practice. I think we'll just have to disagree on this one.

Um, well, Wagner was a tomato can. The fact they scored 28 on us, well, that's on us.

[56BISON73]

I don't know anything about Wagner, but I see you beat them 59-28. That's a good number but its hardly tomato cans for target practice. I think we'll just have to disagree on this one.

Guess Iam going to have to use an example.

How would you feel about ISU playing Coe? Simpson? Dubuque?

[cyborgg]

Guess Iam going to have to use an example.

How would you feel about ISU playing Coe? Simpson? Dubuque?

I don't get your point. Dubuque is divison III. Are you saying the gap between NDSU and FCS Wagner is similar to the gap between the Big 12 and Divison III? :confused:

[56BISON73]

I don't get your point. Dubuque is divison III. Are you saying the gap between NDSU and FCS Wagner is similar to the gap between the Big 12 and Divison III? :confused:

There are D2 and D3 teams IMO who could have put up a better game than Wagner did..

Hence the term tomato can.

[DjKyRo]

I don't get your point. Dubuque is divison III. Are you saying the gap between NDSU and FCS Wagner is similar to the gap between the Big 12 and Divison III? :confused:

Not to toss the smack card when it's perhaps unwarranted, but when you say "the gap between the Big 12 and Division III" do you mean Oklahoma/Texas Big XII or Iowa State Big XII? It seems to me there's a difference, at least where football programs are concerned. Basketball or wrestling, less so, but to throw ISU in with some of the most dominant programs in college football seems a bit whack. Not smack per se, just saying.

[rutlandbison]

Not to toss the smack card when it's perhaps unwarranted, but when you say "the gap between the Big 12 and Division III" do you mean Oklahoma/Texas Big XII or Iowa State Big XII? It seems to me there's a difference, at least where football programs are concerned. Basketball or wrestling, less so, but to throw ISU in with some of the most dominant programs in college football seems a bit whack. Not smack per se, just saying.
Ok sorry, but the gap between big XII and DII or DIII is going to be big no matter what Big XII program you put out there. Imagine St. Johns or Northern State in Aberdeen, SD playing Baylor. No contest.

[IzzyFlexion]

Ok sorry, but the gap between big XII and DII or DIII is going to be big no matter what Big XII program you put out there. Imagine St. Johns or Northern State in Aberdeen, SD playing Baylor. No contest.

Well, c'mon Rutland......
Texas Tech over UND by 25.
Sioux Falls over UND by 15.
Therefore..........Texas Tech over Sioux Falls by 10!!!!!!
Now that there is purty close.

Huh?..........Huh??!.........HUH!!!!????:D :D

[56BISON73]

Well, c'mon Rutland......
Texas Tech over UND by 25.
Sioux Falls over UND by 15.
Therefore..........Texas Tech over Sioux Falls by 10!!!!!!
Now that there is purty close.

Huh?..........Huh??!.........HUH!!!!????:D :D

YEAH!!!! And Sioux Falls is NAIA. So there:D

[2002jack]

Did you guys here about our 11th game next year. It sounds pretty exciting, I think they are DIII.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKcW0ljTg4I&feature=related

[rutlandbison]

Well, c'mon Rutland......
Texas Tech over UND by 25.
Sioux Falls over UND by 15.
Therefore..........Texas Tech over Sioux Falls by 10!!!!!!
Now that there is purty close.

Huh?..........Huh??!.........HUH!!!!????:D :D
damn, that makes sense.

[bisonmike2]

Well, c'mon Rutland......
Texas Tech over UND by 25.
Sioux Falls over UND by 15.
Therefore..........Texas Tech over Sioux Falls by 10!!!!!!
Now that there is purty close.

Huh?..........Huh??!.........HUH!!!!????:D :D

Except that the UND was Texas Tech's first opponent of the year. And everyone knows that the Texas Tech football team was forced to spend the entire offseason locked up in a dark, cramped utility closet. They were only let out 30 minutes before kickoff. They would have beat UND by 55 but their eyes were adjusting to the light for the first half.

[Amused]

Did you guys here about our 11th game next year. It sounds pretty exciting, I think they are DIII.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKcW0ljTg4I&feature=related

Look more like DD.

[GRAFTONBISON]

Just an update of available teams for Sept. 18th accorinding to Championshipsubdivision.com.......

Montana St. (not likely)
Northern Arizona (new to the list)
Cal Poly
Savannah St.
Bethune-Cookman
Morgan St.
SC State
Albany (new to the list)
Bryant
Sacred Heart
St. Francis (new to the list)
Wagner
Austin Peay
Tenn. Tech
Butler
Campbell
Davidson
Drake
Ark-Pine Bluff
Texas St.

[Tatanka]

Just an update of available teams for Sept. 18th accorinding to Championshipsubdivision.com.......

Montana St. (not likely)
Northern Arizona (new to the list)
Cal Poly
Savannah St.
Bethune-Cookman
Morgan St.
SC State
Albany (new to the list)
Bryant
Sacred Heart
St. Francis (new to the list)
Wagner
Austin Peay
Tenn. Tech
Butler
Campbell
Davidson
Drake
Ark-Pine Bluff
Texas St.

Albany? Sacred Heart, St. Francis? Excellent. Let's fly out some cake eaters.

[GOB1SON]

Just an update of available teams for Sept. 18th accorinding to Championshipsubdivision.com.......

Montana St. (not likely)
Northern Arizona (new to the list)
Cal Poly
Savannah St.
Bethune-Cookman
Morgan St.
SC State
Albany (new to the list)
Bryant
Sacred Heart
St. Francis (new to the list)
Wagner
Austin Peay
Tenn. Tech
Butler
Campbell
Davidson
Drake
Ark-Pine Bluff
Texas St.

Apparently they have just as much trouble filling out their schedule as we do.

That list looks shitty to me.

[HooliganBison]

What about another Cal Poly match up? People know the name from the the old conference.

[tjbison]

Just an update of available teams for Sept. 18th accorinding to Championshipsubdivision.com.......

Montana St. (not likely)
Northern Arizona (new to the list)
Cal Poly
Savannah St.
Bethune-Cookman
Morgan St.
SC State
Albany (new to the list)
Bryant
Sacred Heart
St. Francis (new to the list)
Wagner
Austin Peay
Tenn. Tech
Butler
Campbell
Davidson
Drake
Ark-Pine Bluff
Texas St.

According to : http://www.footballscoop.com/?page_id=62

Albany
Charleston Southern
Drake
Lamar
Liberty
Maine
Mcneese
Montana St.
Morehead ST
Sam Houston
Southern (LA)
South Dakota
Wofford

are open

[GOB1SON]

October 30:

Savannah State
Wagner
St. Francis
Albany
Bryant
Cenn Conn St
Robert Morris
Tenn Tech
Georgetown
Cambpell
Davidson
Dayton
Marist

Nothing there that tickles my fancy either.

[SDbison]

What about another Cal Poly match up? People know the name from the the old conference.
Cal Poly would be a great game if they would be willing to play in Fargo without a return trip to California. Also looks like Northern Arizona was just added to the Sept 18 open date list. They are a familiar name. I believe NDSU played them a couple times in the early 1980's. Maybe they are desperate enough to be lured into a one time road trip to Fargo.

[roadwarrior]

Looks like Northern Arizona was just added to the list. Maybe they are desperate enough to be lured into a one time road trip to Fargo.

My first ever Bison football game was against Northern Arizona at Dactoah Field! Bring em back.

[GOB1SON]

According to : http://www.footballscoop.com/?page_id=62

Albany
Charleston Southern
Drake
Lamar
Liberty
Maine
Mcneese
Montana St.
Morehead ST
Sam Houston
Southern (LA)
South Dakota
Wofford

are open

Not so sure that list is kept up to date.

It has us with at least three or four opens but doesn't list Sept. 18 as one of those.

[GOB1SON]

My first ever Bison football game was against Northern Arizona at Dactoah Field! Bring em back.

Northern Arizona
Big Sky
09 record 5-6

Lost to Montana at home in OT 41-34
Beat Montana State in Bozeman 23-10
Beat Portland State in Portland 44-23
Lost to Eastern Washington at home 49-45

Plus we have played in other sports, so our AD must have their phone number.

Bring em' on!

[56BISON73]

McNeece and Wofford always seem to have a good FB team. If I remember correctly.

[GRAFTONBISON]

Wofford & McNeese have a full schedule according to the site I referenced.

Cal-Poly already has 5 road games scheduled, but I am guessing they will be scheduling one more??

[lakesbison]

Wofford cant be that good, they offerred me a football/baseball scholarship. but it would be cool to see them!
Drake feel through huh?

[johnson]

Wasn't Northern Arizona always scheduled as the first game of the season for NDSU way back when?

[roadwarrior]

Wasn't Northern Arizona always scheduled as the first game of the season for NDSU way back when?

We played them the first game of the season for several years. Back and forth between Flagstaff and Fargo.

[56BISON73]

I know we played them 1971-1974.

[ndsubison1]

I'd be all for playing NAU

[56BISON73]

Wofford cant be that good, they offerred me a football/baseball scholarship. but it would be cool to see them!
Drake feel through huh?

There was a time when Wofford wasnt considered very good. But in the last 5 years they have been pretty good except for last year when they went 3-9. But in 2007 they were 9-3 of 4 and beat Appalacian State.

[ndsubison1]

Wofford's been pretty solid in football recently. They knocked off Montana in Mizzoula in the playoffs a couple of seasons ago. Their basketball squad is pretty decent this year too.

[Facts]

N.A.U.
we. want. you.

[NDSUstudent]

Drake will be playing at Montana State on the 18th.

[A1pigskin]

Maine...................... or Sam Houston...

[BisoninNWMN]

How long will it take Gene to get the last game scheduled this year??

:confused:

[godhateswalmart]

July. Gene needs to step up his play.

[DjKyRo]

July. Gene needs to step up his play.

He's waiting for the right school.

....bunny fans?

[sambini]

July. Gene needs to step up his play. He will have faith++++

[IDDUKES]

Drake will be playing at Montana State on the 18th.

http://www.areavoices.com/bisonmedia/?blog=71921

[aces1180]

http://www.areavoices.com/bisonmedia/?blog=71921

Well, to be quite honest, I would rather see the Herd play someone better...Not sure if that will happen, but Gene has done a good job in the past, so its not a stretch to think that again.

[Wally]

I'm just tired of this scheduling deal. It seems to be problem for Taylor, at least the last 2 years anyway.

[westnodak93bison]

imho, the non conference home game is a tough deal for Gene. Fans want a competitive game from a quality opponent but those types of teams don't want to chance getting beat and may want a home game themselves. Yeah, we have had a couple down years but I would say most quality FCS teams know coming to Fargo would be a tough test most years.

[Hammersmith]

The last game will always be the toughest to schedule. And it will always be tougher for NDSU due to our location(cost of travel), our level of play(typically quite high), and the fact that we try for single game contracts(so we can have six home games every year). I'm not going to criticize GT for a very tough job.

[BisoninNWMN]

The last game will always be the toughest to schedule. And it will always be tougher for NDSU due to our location(cost of travel), our level of play(typically quite high), and the fact that we try for single game contracts(so we can have six home games every year). I'm not going to criticize GT for a very tough job.

Ya, GT has a tough job.

But if he is going to schedule a tomato can game, you would think it would be pretty easy to schedule one of those. IMO, if that is all he is going after for the last game then he could get that done in the fall not in April/May.

[godhateswalmart]

another FBS?

[NDSUstudent]

another FBS?

Only if they are willing to come to Fargo...this year.

[Bison"FANatic"]

Ya, GT has a tough job.

But if he is going to schedule a tomato can game, you would think it would be pretty easy to schedule one of those. IMO, if that is all he is going after for the last game then he could get that done in the fall not in April/May.

It is in the best interest of a lot of "Tomato cans" to not schedule games until later though as it is my understanding the later it gets the larger price they get but you would think you would be able to work something out earlier though.

[GRAFTONBISON]

My weekly update of available teams for Sept. 18th according to Championshipsubdivision.com.......

Northern Arizona
Savannah St.
Bethune-Cookman
Albany
Bryant
Sacred Heart
St. Francis
Austin Peay
Tenn. Tech
Bucknell (new to the list)
Butler
Ark-Pine Bluff

Other than Northern Arizona......Yuck:banghead:

[aces1180]

My weekly update of available teams for Sept. 18th according to Championshipsubdivision.com.......

Northern Arizona
Savannah St.
Bethune-Cookman
Albany
Bryant
Sacred Heart
St. Francis
Austin Peay
Tenn. Tech
Bucknell (new to the list)
Butler
Ark-Pine Bluff

Other than Northern Arizona......Yuck:banghead:

I don't care who they play, I just want a home game on that date.

[Bison bison]

My weekly update of available teams for Sept. 18th according to Championshipsubdivision.com.......

Northern Arizona
Savannah St.
Bethune-Cookman
Albany
Bryant
Sacred Heart
St. Francis
Austin Peay
Tenn. Tech
Bucknell (new to the list)
Butler
Ark-Pine Bluff

Other than Northern Arizona......Yuck:banghead:

?

Albany and Tenn. Tech would be good games.

[tjbison]

YEah Albany is a lower Scholly NEC team but they are much better than CCSU or Wagner

[unbison]

I say bethune cookman............... they gotta bring their band......... and the goldstar can have a march off with the marching wildcats

[SDbison]

I say bethune cookman............... they gotta bring their band......... and the goldstar can have a march off with the marching wildcats
Please no patsy games........need to schedule a team that challenges the Bison so that they keep on improving.

[Bison"FANatic"]

Please no patsy games........need to schedule a team that challenges the Bison so that they keep on improving.

Well SD I bet you are going to be very disappointed as they have opened the home schedule with a "patsy" for at least 7 years and I highly doubt that will change this year.

09 - Wagner
08 - Austin Peay
07 - Steven F Austin
06 - Concordia St Paul
05 - Arkansas Monticello
04 - Valpraiso

[SDbison]

Well SD I bet you are going to be very disappointed as they have opened the home schedule with a "patsy" for at least 7 years and I highly doubt that will change this year.

09 - Wagner
08 - Austin Peay
07 - Steven F Austin
06 - Concordia St Paul
05 - Arkansas Monticello
04 - Valpraiso

Yeah look where it has got the Bison once they were playoff elligible......
I don't have a problem with a middle of the road team, but patsies just don't enable a team to further develop their skills.

[tjbison]

I really think Albany would be a great game after Can-s-ass and YOU N I, they are not horrible. Beatable but not a total patsy

[BisonKent]

Bucknell is also the Bison so maybe the "Battle of the Bison" game would be kind of cool.

[roadwarrior]

Bucknell is also the Bison so maybe the "Battle of the Bison" game would be kind of cool.

We already beat them in basketball......they probably wouldn't play us.

[unbison]

Please no patsy games........need to schedule a team that challenges the Bison so that they keep on improving.
well bethune cookman was 5-6 last year so they had a better record than us and they have a new coach

[IzzyFlexion]

I am envious of UND's first two scheduled games.
On September 4th they travel to Idaho to play in the Kibbie Dome (horse shiz building that looks nearly identical to the UNI-Dump.)*
The following week, they go to Northern Illinois.
These are two teams that NDSU would be very competitive against.
*NOTE: NDSU outdrew Idaho by nearly 4,000 per game in 2009.

[DjKyRo]

I am envious of UND's first two scheduled games.
On September 4th they travel to Idaho to play in the Kibbie Dome (horse shiz building that looks nearly identical to the UNI-Dump.)*
The following week, they go to Northern Illinois.
These are two teams that NDSU would be very competitive against.
*NOTE: NDSU outdrew Idaho by nearly 4,000 per game in 2009.

But hey! We have a respectable chance against Kansas. I'll take that over competitive in Idaho - winning that game would be like Minnesota-in-2007 squared.

[BisonNeil]

I think we all would like to see a good team come to the dome, but at this point in time, beggars can't be choosers. It is disappointing that it takes so long to complete a schedule. At this point a 10 game DI schedule is a real possibility since there aren't a lot of options out there.

[DjKyRo]

I think we all would like to see a good team come to the dome, but at this point in time, beggars can't be choosers. It is disappointing that it takes so long to complete a schedule. At this point a 10 game DI schedule is a real possibility since there aren't a lot of options out there.

And let's not forget we have Montana coming. Loathe as I am to credit that program with anything, they do have a somewhat-respectable squad most every year. That game (at home!) is going to staple some butts in seats.

But yeah, sixth home game would be baller.

[SDbison]

And let's not forget we have Montana coming. Loathe as I am to credit that program with anything, they do have a somewhat-respectable squad most every year. That game (at home!) is going to staple some butts in seats.

But yeah, sixth home game would be baller.
I don't think NDSU plays Montana at home until 2011 or 2012.

[Greenie]

Regarding the Georgia Southern game in 2011 in Fargo...

http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/12995058/qb-shaw-to-transfer-from-georgia-tech-to-georgia-southern?tag=headlines;headlines

Georgia Tech backup quarterback Jaybo Shaw is transferring to Georgia Southern and will be eligible to play for the Eagles in 2010.

Shaw will have two years of eligibility at Georgia Southern. He played in seven games, including one start, as a freshman in 2008. He was slowed in 2009 by a broken collarbone in August before playing a more limited role behind starter Josh Nesbitt.

[BadlandsBison]

Regarding the Georgia Southern game in 2011 in Fargo...

http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/12995058/qb-shaw-to-transfer-from-georgia-tech-to-georgia-southern?tag=headlines;headlines

Georgia Tech backup quarterback Jaybo Shaw is transferring to Georgia Southern and will be eligible to play for the Eagles in 2010.

Shaw will have two years of eligibility at Georgia Southern. He played in seven games, including one start, as a freshman in 2008. He was slowed in 2009 by a broken collarbone in August before playing a more limited role behind starter Josh Nesbitt.

If we beat Bomar, I have no doubt we can beat this guy and his Georgia Southern team.

[tjbison]

If we beat Bomar, I have no doubt we can beat this guy and his Georgia Southern team.

Bomar had zero supporting cast also, HE beat us himself, just too bad he couldn't play Defense.


GSU gets quality kids, they have had other issues

[CHADSTAUS]

I remember Bomar having a decent suporting cast. I dont think he alone could have beat us. Granted he was VERY good, HE had some help.

[Gully]

Does this mean Georgia Southern is going back to the option? If so, look out.

[Greenie]

I'm pretty sure they're back to running the triple option, like they did when Paul Johnson (GT head coach) was there

[Twentysix]

Tripple options got nothing on the Wirly-gig offense or the Wild bison formation.

-OL-OL-C-OL-OL

-----QB-QB

--RB-RB-RB-RB


or

QB-QB-QB-QB-QB-QB

--------QB--QB

----QB-----QB

--------QB


Stop that shit.