Sports
NCAA May Alter Rule Affecting North Dakota State's Playoff Eligibility
The NCAA is considering a rule change that could allow transitioning teams like North Dakota State to be bowl-eligible sooner. If passed, the proposed legislation would allow NDSU immediate eligibility for the Mountain West Championship Game and the College Football Playoff this fall.
North Dakota State (NDSU) recently joined the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) in February, following 15 years of dominance in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), where they secured 10 national championships. Previously, NCAA rules required transitioning teams to wait two years before becoming eligible for bowl games. Dom Izzo, of the Fargo Forum, reported that the NCAA Division I Football Oversight Committee introduced new legislation regarding the 'deserving team rule'. The current rule determines the requirements that teams must meet to become bowl eligible. NDSU has been seeking a waiver or rule change, with the Mountain West supporting the move.
Key Facts
- NDSU transitioned to the FBS after a successful FCS run.
- Current NCAA rules prevent transitioning teams from participating in the College Football Playoff or conference championship games for two years.
- The NCAA Division I Football Oversight Committee is considering new legislation.
- The proposed rule would allow teams like NDSU and Sacramento State to be bowl-eligible if they achieve six Division I wins and fulfil conference bowl commitments.
- If the proposal passes, NDSU would gain immediate eligibility for the Mountain West Championship Game.
- NDSU would also become eligible for the College Football Playoff this fall if the rule is adopted.
- The Mountain West supports NDSU's request for a waiver or rule change.