In a significant shift for collegiate athletics, the University of Sioux Falls (USF) football team, under the leadership of coach Kalen DeBoer, transitioned from the NAIA to NCAA Division II. This move, driven by the Cougars’ overwhelming success at the NAIA level, mirrors the current trajectory of North Dakota State University (NDSU) as they consider leaving the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) for the Mountain West Conference.
From 2008 to 2010, the USF Cougars established themselves as a dominant force in the NAIA, culminating in a remarkable 14-0 season in 2008 that earned them the national championship. They followed this with another perfect season in 2009, finishing 15-0 and scoring a staggering 775 points, averaging 51.7 points per game. DeBoer’s coaching record during this time stood at an impressive 67-3, clearly indicating that the Cougars had outgrown their competition.
The disparity between USF and its NAIA rivals was stark. While the Cougars played in a Division II-caliber stadium and boasted a robust coaching staff, many of their opponents struggled with basic operational aspects such as maintaining up-to-date statistics or securing radio broadcasts for games. This environment highlighted the need for USF to seek a more competitive landscape.
Transitioning to NCAA Division II in 2012, USF found immediate success, winning their first game against a ranked opponent, St. Cloud State, and finishing their inaugural season with a 9-2 record. Over the following years, the Cougars maintained a strong showing, making the Division II playoffs multiple times, though they have yet to secure a national championship at this level.
This evolution raises an important question for NDSU as they contemplate their future in college football. With ten FCS titles, they have reached the pinnacle of success at that level. Yet, the potential for growth in a more competitive environment, similar to USF’s experience, is enticing. Much like USF, NDSU has consistently demonstrated strong performance, suggesting they too could thrive in a new conference.
Both institutions exhibit similar characteristics when comparing their resources, coaching talent, and facilities. The departure of NDSU from the FCS could pave the way for other programs to emerge as champions, just as USF’s exit opened doors for teams like Morningside and Saint Xavier to claim NAIA titles.
The impact of NDSU’s potential move could be profound for the FCS landscape. As established programs like Youngstown State and South Dakota State University (SDSU) prepare to vie for national titles, the absence of the Bison could alter the competitive dynamics within the conferences.
Currently, SDSU has been identified as a likely candidate for a future move to Division I, reflecting a growing trend among FCS programs to seek greater challenges. Their recent success, including a 9-5 record last season, demonstrates their ability to compete effectively within the FCS, though they have not yet shown a desire to leave.
In conclusion, the journey of the USF Cougars under Kalen DeBoer serves as a compelling case study for NDSU as they weigh their options. While the nostalgia of past achievements in the FCS is undeniable, the prospect of competing at a higher level could ultimately lead to greater opportunities and growth for the program. The college football landscape continues to evolve, and both USF and NDSU illustrate the importance of adapting to new challenges for long-term success.
