North Dakota State Bison Secure Ninth FCS Championship in Ten Years with 28-24 Victory Over James Madison

The 2025 FCS Championship in Frisco, Texas, was nothing short of a spectacle, as the North Dakota State Bison extended their dynasty with a hard-fought 28-24 victory over the James Madison Dukes. This latest triumph not only marks their ninth championship in the past ten years but also cements North Dakota State’s place as the premier team in the FCS.

The game, which was played in front of an electric crowd, saw both teams battle fiercely in a contest that came down to the wire. North Dakota State entered the game with its typical high expectations, having dominated the FCS landscape for nearly a decade. However, James Madison posed a significant challenge, led by a powerful offense and a determined defense that kept the Bison on their toes throughout.

Early in the game, it was clear that both teams came prepared to play. James Madison, a team that has been steadily building its reputation in the FCS, struck first, taking an early lead. But the Bison quickly responded, with quarterback Cam Miller executing a well-rounded performance that featured both strategic passing and timely rushing. The North Dakota State defense, known for its resilience, stepped up when it mattered most, stifling the Dukes' attempts at a comeback.

In the final minutes, James Madison had a chance to reclaim the lead, but a critical interception by Bison cornerback Destin Talbert sealed the victory, allowing North Dakota State to clinch the title with a 28-24 scoreline.

This championship win is a testament to the strength of the Bison program, led by head coach Matt Entz, who has established a culture of excellence. With their continued success, North Dakota State has firmly entrenched itself as the gold standard in FCS football, while James Madison, despite the loss, proved that they are a team to be reckoned with in the coming years.