North Dakota State cruised to a 33-7 victory over Jacksonville State in the Bison's first FBS game, played at the Fargodome in Fargo, N. D. Nathan Hayes completed 14 of 22 passes for two touchdowns, and Myles Mitchell rushed for 74 yards on 11 carries.

The Bison broke open a 7-7 tie with 26 unanswered points, outgaining Jacksonville State 373-170. Blake Schiltz recovered a fumble in the end zone for a score, and Drew Klein made three field goals. NDSU recorded 20 first downs with only one interception by Hayes.

Coach Tim Polasek praised the team's effort, calling the win 'step No. 1' in their FBS transition and expressing excitement for the season ahead. Jacksonville State's Caden Creel threw for 85 yards with one interception and was limited to 2-of-10 on third downs. The Bison, now in the Mountain West Conference, will face FCS Fordham next before opening league play against Air Force on Sept. 12.