North Dakota State will host UTEP on October 31, 2026, at Gate City Bank Field at the Fargodome in Fargo, ND, with kickoff set for 3:30 PM ET. The matchup will be carried on ABC and streamed on Fubo, giving fans a clear way to follow a game that pits one of college football’s stingiest defenses against a UTEP team that has managed just one win all season.
The Bison enter the matchup allowing just 12.5 points per game, a number that helps explain why they have been so difficult to play against. Even after a 21-16 loss to New Mexico before October 31, North Dakota State remains a team built around defense and efficient play on offense.
What stands out for North Dakota State
Nathan Hayes has been a key part of the offensive story, throwing for 1,470 yards and 12 touchdowns. That production gives North Dakota State a steady passing element to complement a defense that has kept opponents under control for most of the season.
The Bison’s broader numbers also reinforce their profile. They have scored 222 points while allowing 100, and their 6-2 record shows a team that has been winning more often than not despite a recent setback.
UTEP’s challenge in Fargo
UTEP arrives with a 1-6 record and just one victory on the season, which makes this a significant test even by road-game standards. The Miners are also coming in with offensive numbers that leave little margin for error, including 106 points and 2,788 total yards.
There are a few individual stats worth watching as well. One UTEP player has posted 503 receiving yards, while another has added 414 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns. On defense, a player with 39 tackles has been a notable contributor, but the overall task against North Dakota State is a difficult one.
The two programs have never met, which adds a little extra intrigue to a game that already has clear stakes. North Dakota State is trying to keep its momentum and defensive identity intact, while UTEP is looking for a much-needed result against one of the toughest teams on its schedule.
