I don't see it that way.
a) The seats that are being re-sold (NDSU has already recognized revenue from) on ticket broker sites and Craig's List for the big dollar amounts are not moving very quickly.
b) Seems like the excitement level is down this year, yet fans still want to go. Folks will likely buy up the $25 tix and pass on the $35, $45, and higher priced 3rd party ones. They won't stay in the corners. They'll funnel into the unsold reserve seats once the game is under way.
c) This gives NDSU an opportunity to sell more tickets.....just wont be as much revenue.....but it is better than zero (for the unsold reserved).