The North Dakota State Bison are set to face the Wyoming Cowboys on October 3, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. ET at Gate City Bank Field in Fargo, North Dakota. This matchup features a Bison team that is off to a strong start in their inaugural FBS season.
Why it matters: North Dakota State enters this game with an impressive 4-0 record, looking to extend their winning streak against a struggling Wyoming team. The Bison's performance could solidify their standing in the Mountain West Conference.
North Dakota State is in its first season in FBS and has already proved competitive, winning all four of its games so far.
Wyoming, currently 2-2, hopes to improve its standing after a mixed start to the season.
This game will be a litmus test for both teams as they navigate their conference schedules.
Driving the news: The Bison come into this game well rested after a week off, following a commanding 31-10 victory over Sacramento State in Week 3. In that game, quarterback Nathan Hayes threw for 210 yards and one touchdown, and receiver Jackson Williams recorded 134 receiving yards and a touchdown.
North Dakota State's defense had a rare outing without a sack against Sacramento State, marking their first such game since January 6, 2025.
In their last outing, the Bison won by at least 21 points for the third time this season, establishing themselves as a formidable opponent.
The big picture: Wyoming is looking to turn around its season after a tough start. The Cowboys recently bounced back from a loss to Central Michigan by defeating Hawaii 27-10, marking their first Mountain West win of the season.
In the victory over Hawaii, running backs Markell Holman and Samuel Harris combined for three rushing touchdowns, with Harris rushing for 94 yards and a score on just 11 carries.
Wyoming's quarterback Tyler Hughes has struggled this season, throwing only two touchdowns against five interceptions, which has hampered the team's offensive consistency.
What they're saying: Analysts are divided on the potential outcome of this matchup. Betting odds favor North Dakota State significantly, indicating a spread of -18.5 in their favor.
“If Wyoming is going to pull the upset, they'll need much more from quarterback Tyler Hughes,” said a betting analyst.
North Dakota State's strong performance in previous games has led many to predict another victory, with a common score forecasted at North Dakota State 33, Wyoming 17.
By the numbers: The betting odds provide insight into how both teams are perceived heading into this game.
As of October 1, 2026, North Dakota State is favored with a moneyline of -1205, compared to Wyoming’s +705.
Wyoming has struggled against the spread this season, registering a 1-3 record, failing to cover in five straight road games.
North Dakota State has covered the spread in eight consecutive conference home games, reinforcing their dominance in familiar territory.
What's next: Following this matchup, both teams will look to build momentum as they progress through the season. North Dakota State aims to maintain its perfect record, potentially setting the stage for a higher ranking in the FBS.
Wyoming will need to regain confidence and consistency if they hope to make a push for a winning record this season.
The game will be broadcast on The CW and available for streaming on FuboTV.