Mar 29,2025 by Eva Sutra
Who Are the New Faces in the North Dakota State Bison 2025 Roster
The North Dakota State Bison are preparing for an exciting 2025 season. You can feel the buzz all around! Nine new players are joining the team this year. These include five transfer players and four top high school recruits. Each player brings special talents to help the team. Some will strengthen the defense, while others will boost the offense. These players are ready to make a big difference. Get ready to cheer because this season will be amazing!
Key Takeaways
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The North Dakota State Bison have nine new players for 2025. Five are transfers, and four are from high school.
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Transfers bring experience, while high school players bring fresh energy.
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Important new players include Jalon Peoples, a quick cornerback, and Ethan Carter, a strong quarterback. Both are expected to do very well.
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Coaches are working to build a balanced team. They want to improve both offense and defense with these new players.
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Local players like Jake Larson and Sam Peterson bring pride and hard work. They help make the team stronger and closer.
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Fans are excited for the season and expect great games. They look forward to seeing the new players shine.
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The Bison are aiming for their 11th national title. This shows their history of winning and being competitive.
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Coaches focus on teamwork and helping new players improve. They want everyone to fit in and succeed.
Overview of the 2025 Roster Changes
Summary of New Additions
Breakdown of the nine new players joining the team.
The North Dakota State Bison are adding nine new players this year. Five are transfers, and four are high school recruits. Each player has special skills to help the team succeed. The transfers bring experience from other college programs. The high school recruits are eager to show their talent on a bigger stage. Together, they could make a big impact this season.
Here’s a quick look at the new players:
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🏈 Five Transfers: These players have college experience and can help right away.
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🌟 Four High School Recruits: Young players with great records and lots of promise.
Key positions bolstered by the new recruits and transfers.
The new players will strengthen important areas of the team. The defense gets stronger with Jalon Peoples, a fast cornerback from Texas Tech. His speed can stop opposing teams. On offense, the team added more wide receivers and running backs. These changes aim to make the team more balanced and powerful.
Departures from the Team
Notable players leaving due to graduation or transfer.
Every year, some players leave, and 2025 is no different. Some key players graduated or transferred to other schools. Their absence leaves gaps, but it also gives new players a chance to shine. Graduation rates, like the Federal Graduation Rate and Graduation Success Rate (GSR), show how student-athletes succeed after college. For example:
Metric |
Description |
---|---|
Federal Graduation Rate |
Tracks how many students graduate within six years at the same school. |
Graduation Success Rate (GSR) |
Counts transfers too, giving a clearer picture of success. |
The GSR often shows about 40% more students than federal rates, proving transfers have a big impact.
Strategies to address gaps left by departing players.
The coaches have a plan to fill these gaps. They recruited players who can play in different positions. Transfers with experience will help right away. High school recruits will learn and grow with the help of experienced coaches. This mix of skill and potential will keep the team strong.
Key Recruits for 2025
2025 Football Recruiting Class
Profiles of standout recruits, including their high school achievements.
The North Dakota State Bison have added four talented high school players. These young athletes have already shown they are skilled and hardworking. Let’s learn more about them:
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🏈 Ethan Carter: A quarterback with a strong arm and smart plays. He led his team to two state titles, throwing over 3,500 yards last year.
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🌟 Liam Rodriguez: A wide receiver who is fast and quick on his feet. Liam had 1,200 receiving yards and scored 15 touchdowns last season.
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💪 Marcus Johnson: A defensive lineman with great strength. Marcus had 12 sacks and 20 tackles for loss, dominating the field.
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⚡ Tyler Nguyen: A running back with amazing speed. Tyler averaged 8.5 yards per carry and scored 18 touchdowns.
These players bring skills that match the team’s needs. Ethan’s passing will improve the offense, while Marcus adds power to defense. Liam and Tyler bring speed and creativity, making the team stronger.
Here’s how these recruits were judged:
Metric Type |
Description |
---|---|
On-Field Performance |
Played well under pressure and made big plays. |
Positional Strength |
Fit perfectly into the roles the team needed. |
Game Statistics |
Impressive numbers like touchdowns and yards. |
Physical Testing Results |
Showed athletic ability in speed and strength tests. |
Injury History |
Few injuries, showing they can stay healthy. |
Long-Term Potential |
Great potential to grow in skills and strength. |
How these recruits fit into the North Dakota State Bison's strategy.
The Bison’s plan focuses on balance and flexibility. These recruits fit perfectly. Ethan’s smart decisions will improve passing plays. Liam and Tyler add speed, making the offense harder to predict. Marcus will strengthen the defense by stopping runs and pressuring opponents. Together, they bring energy and depth to the team.
Local Talent and Hidden Gems
Recruits from North Dakota and surrounding areas.
The Bison always value players from nearby. This year, they’ve added athletes from North Dakota and nearby states. These players may not be famous, but they work hard and have great skills.
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🌾 Jake Larson: A linebacker from Fargo, ND, known for smart plays and strong tackles.
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🏔️ Sam Peterson: An offensive lineman from South Dakota who protects the quarterback and blocks well.
These players grew up watching the Bison and know the team’s culture. Their passion gives them an advantage.
Under-the-radar players with potential to make a significant impact.
Sometimes, the best players are the ones no one expects. The Bison found some hidden gems who could surprise everyone. They may not have big stats, but their talent is clear.
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🔥 Mason Hill: A cornerback with quick moves and great at catching interceptions.
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⚙️ Ryan Blake: A flexible player who can play different positions, helping the team.
Local stats show how important these players can be:
Position |
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LEFT FULL-BACK |
2.006 |
RIGHT WING-BACK |
1.823 |
RIGHT FULL-BACK |
1.790 |
ATTACKING MIDFIELDER |
1.607 |
LEFT CENTRAL MIDFIELDER |
1.522 |

These local players and hidden gems bring hard work and determination. They are ready to prove themselves and help the Bison win.
Transfers In and Out
Incoming Transfers
Notable transfers, including former Texas Tech cornerback Jalon Peoples.
The North Dakota State Bison have added some great transfers for 2025. One big name is Jalon Peoples, a cornerback from Texas Tech. He is fast and smart at reading plays. This makes him a strong addition to the defense. Peoples is great at stopping receivers and causing turnovers. His skills can change the flow of a game. With his experience, he will bring leadership and confidence to the team.
Other transfers also bring talent in different positions. These players have already shown their abilities in tough college games. Their experience will help the Bison face strong opponents. Expect them to step up during important moments and make an impact.
Expected roles and contributions of these transfers to the team.
The new transfers will play key roles this season. Peoples will likely lead the defense, using his speed to block passes and cover receivers. He could be a game-changer. Other transfers will help protect the quarterback by strengthening the offensive line. Some will add depth to running back and wide receiver spots, giving the team more options.
These players are not just filling empty spots. They bring energy and new skills to the team. Their efforts will help the Bison stay strong and aim for another championship.
Outgoing Transfers
Key players leaving the program and their new destinations.
Each year, some players leave, and 2025 is no different. A few important players have transferred to other schools for new chances. This includes a star wide receiver who joined a Big Ten team. A defensive lineman moved to a Pac-12 school. Their talent will be missed, but their moves allow new players to step up.
Here’s where some of these players are going:
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🌟 Wide Receiver: Now with a top Big Ten team.
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💪 Defensive Lineman: Joined a strong Pac-12 program.
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🏈 Linebacker: Transferred to a smaller school for more playtime.
How the team plans to fill the void left by these departures.
The coaches have a plan to handle these changes. They’ve brought in flexible players who can take on different roles. Transfers with experience will help right away. High school recruits will grow under the guidance of skilled coaches. The team’s focus is on staying deep and adaptable, so no position is weak.
The Bison will use a mix of experienced leaders and new talent to fill these gaps. This strategy keeps the team ready to compete at a high level.
Impact on the Bison Football Team
Offensive Impact
Improvements to the offense with new players.
The Bison are ready for a stronger offense in 2025. New players bring fresh energy and skills to the team. Ethan Carter, a talented high school quarterback, has a strong arm. He makes smart decisions and can lead the offense well. Wide receiver Liam Rodriguez is fast and quick, perfect for long passes.
Last season, the team showed great passing skills. Senior quarterback Cam Miller threw 199 yards and ran 126 yards in the championship. Junior receiver Bryce Lance caught 9 passes for 107 yards. These stats show how new players can make the offense even better. With experience and new talent, the offense will be exciting and hard to predict.
Possible changes to offensive strategies for 2025.
New players mean the coaches might change their plans. They could add more passing plays to use Carter’s arm and Rodriguez’s speed. Tyler Nguyen, a fast running back, might boost the running game. These changes will confuse defenses and help the team score more points.
Defensive Impact
Making the defense stronger with new recruits.
The Bison are improving their defense with key players. Jalon Peoples, a transfer from Texas Tech, is fast and experienced. He can stop receivers and read plays well. Marcus Johnson, a high school recruit, adds strength to the defensive line. He is great at sacks and tackles, making it hard for opponents to gain yards.
The team’s defensive stats show why these players are important:
Metric |
Importance |
|
---|---|---|
Successful Presses |
Positive |
High |
Ball Recoveries |
Negative |
High |
Plus-Minus Ratings |
Positive |
High |
Expected Goals Measures |
Positive |
High |
These numbers prove a strong defense is key. With Peoples and Johnson, the defense will be tougher than ever.
Important defensive players to watch in 2025.
Watch out for Jalon Peoples and Marcus Johnson. Their skills could make them leaders on defense. Jake Larson, a linebacker from Fargo, is another player to follow. He is smart and tackles well, making him a strong addition.
Special Teams Contributions
New players joining the special teams.
Special teams are very important in close games. This year, the Bison added players who can help a lot. A new kicker with a strong leg can improve field goals. A fast returner might give the team better starting positions.
Key ways special teams can change games.
Special teams can make a big difference in games. Here’s how:
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🏈 Good kicking turns missed chances into points.
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⚡ Fast returns can change the game’s momentum.
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🔄 Keeping possession helps the team stay in control.
These plays may not get much attention, but they matter. With new players, the Bison’s special teams are ready to shine.
Coaching Staff's Role in Recruitment
Recruitment Strategy
How the coaching staff found and signed top players.
The North Dakota State Bison coaches are great at spotting talent. They don’t just check stats; they look deeper. They focus on teamwork, leadership, and how well players fit the team. This way, they pick athletes who can help right away.
The coaches use a detailed process to choose players. They study leadership skills and how players match the team’s values. This ensures they’re building a strong and united group. Here’s why their method works:
Advantage |
Description |
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Coaches use strong networks to find top players, even hidden ones. |
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In-Depth Candidate Assessments |
They check leadership and team fit, not just skills. |
Higher Placement Success Rates |
Their careful process helps players stay longer and succeed. |
This strategy keeps the Bison competitive every year. By focusing on more than just talent, they create a team that works well together.
Focus on creating a strong and balanced team.
The coaches know balance is important. They aim to make every part of the team strong—offense, defense, and special teams. This year, they added players to fill gaps and bring new energy.
For example, they brought in Jalon Peoples to improve defense and Ethan Carter to strengthen offense. These players help the team stay strong against tough opponents. The coaches’ focus on balance ensures every position is ready for close games.
Development Plans
How new players will grow and fit into the team.
Recruiting players is just the start. The coaches have plans to help them adjust fast. They create training programs that build on each player’s strengths and fix weaknesses.
Teamwork is also a big focus. New players join activities to bond with teammates. This helps them feel welcome and part of the group. Past programs show how well this works:
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🌟 Denton, Texas: Coaches worked with players to find strengths and improve weak spots.
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🤝 Corinth, Texas: Long-term plans like Vision 2030 showed how teamwork leads to success.
These examples prove planning and teamwork are key, and the Bison coaches are great at both.
Building a strong team culture and unity.
Team culture matters a lot to the Bison. Coaches work hard to create a supportive environment. They organize activities to build trust and encourage players to communicate openly. This helps everyone play better because they feel like part of a family.
Coaches also promote leadership. Older players guide younger ones, sharing tips and experience. This mentoring makes the team stronger and keeps everyone focused on winning championships.
Expectations for the 2025 Season
Predicted Team Performance
Early predictions for the North Dakota State Bison's success in 2025.
The North Dakota State Bison are ready for a big 2025 season. They have 12 starters returning from last year’s championship team. The team is aiming for their 11th national title since 2011. This shows they are strong and consistent every year. Senior quarterback Cam Miller will lead the offense. Junior receiver Bryce Lance is expected to be a key player.
Here’s why the Bison could do great:
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🏆 Recent Success: Winning their 10th title last year shows they perform well under pressure.
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💪 Key Players: Cam Miller’s leadership and Bryce Lance’s skills will boost the offense.
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🧠 Smart Coaching: New head coach Tim Polasek brings fresh ideas and knows the team well.
The defense is also improving under coordinator Grant Olson. New players like Jalon Peoples and Marcus Johnson will make it stronger. Experts think the Bison will stay dominant in the NCAA Division I FCS. They have a good chance of making the playoffs.
Key games to watch with the new roster.
Get ready for some exciting games this season! These matchups will test the team and show how the new players fit in:
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🏈 Season Opener vs. UIW Cardinals: The Cardinals have been strong, winning 80% of their games in four years. This game will challenge the Bison’s new lineup.
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🔥 Rivalry Game vs. South Dakota State: This game is always thrilling and important for playoff spots.
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🚨 Conference Clash vs. Montana State: Playing against this tough team will test the Bison’s defense and new recruits.
These games will show how well the team’s new strategies and players work together. Don’t miss these matchups to see the Bison in action.
Fan and Media Reactions
Excitement and expectations from fans.
Fans are thrilled about the 2025 season. The new recruits and transfers have given hope for another championship. Social media and local events are buzzing with excitement. Many fans are eager to see players like Jalon Peoples and Ethan Carter in action.
Here’s what fans are saying:
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🎉 “I can’t wait to see the Bison win again!”
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🐾 “Jalon Peoples will make our defense so much better!”
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💛 “This team looks amazing. Let’s win another title!”
Bison fans are passionate and loyal. Their energy makes every game at the FargoDome exciting and tough for opponents.
Media coverage of the team's new additions.
The media is also excited about the Bison’s new roster. Analysts are praising their recruiting and highlighting stars like Cam Miller and Bryce Lance. Tools like CisionOne and Nexis Newsdesk show more coverage about the team’s goals and new players.
Tool |
Description |
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CisionOne |
Tracks news and reports on the team’s performance. |
CisionOne Social |
Watches social media for fan conversations about the Bison. |
Nexis Newsdesk |
Analyzes media trends and stories about the team. |
This attention shows how much people expect from the Bison. If the team does well, even more media coverage will follow as the season goes on.
Challenges and Opportunities
Challenges for the New Players
Learning the team's system and fitting into the culture.
Joining the North Dakota State Bison is more than just playing football. New players must learn the team’s playbook, which can be tricky. The Bison have a history of winning, and every player must help continue that success. It’s important to know your role and how it helps the whole team.
The team values hard work and teamwork. Building trust with teammates and coaches is key. This might take time, especially for players from other programs. Luckily, coaches and experienced players are there to help. They’ll guide you and make you feel part of the Bison family.
Competing for starting spots in a tough environment.
Getting a starting position on the Bison team is not easy. The roster is full of talented players, and competition is strong. You’ll need to work hard and show your skills during every practice.
Coaches look for players who are consistent and give their best effort. It’s not just about big plays but showing you can perform well daily. This competitive atmosphere helps everyone improve and prepares players for big game moments.
Opportunities for Growth
Chance to stand out during the 2025 season.
The 2025 season is a great chance for new players to shine. Whether you’re a recruit or a transfer, you can make a big impact. Imagine scoring a game-winning touchdown or leading the team in a key moment. These are the moments fans will cheer for and remember.
Here are some things that can help you succeed:
Factor |
Description |
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Success Rate |
Shows how often you make good plays, helping the team. |
Efficiency Measures |
Avoiding mistakes that could hurt the team’s performance. |
Field Position |
Starting in good spots can lead to more scoring chances. |
Impact of Explosiveness |
One big play can change the game’s outcome. |
A small boost in success rate can greatly improve winning chances. |
By focusing on these areas, you can make a big difference. Coaches and fans will notice your hard work.
Preparing for long-term success with the Bison.
Being part of the Bison isn’t just about one season. It’s about joining a program that creates champions. You’ll get great coaching and use top facilities to grow as a player and person.
The team’s culture focuses on hard work, discipline, and teamwork. These lessons will help you on and off the field. By embracing this, you’ll set yourself up for success. Whether you aim to play professionally or succeed in another career, your time with the Bison will prepare you well.
The North Dakota State Bison are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season. The team has added skilled high school recruits and experienced transfers. These players bring fresh energy and talent to important positions. Fans can look forward to exciting games and memorable plays. Get ready to support the team because this season could be legendary!
🏈 Tip: Wear your pride with the North Dakota State Bison NCAA Custom Embroidered Sweatshirt. It’s great for game days and everyday wear!
FAQ
What makes the 2025 roster special?
The 2025 roster combines experienced transfers and talented high school recruits. These players bring fresh energy and skills to key positions. With a mix of seasoned athletes and rising stars, the team is set to compete at a high level.
Who is the most exciting new player to watch?
Keep an eye on Jalon Peoples, the cornerback transfer from Texas Tech. His speed and defensive skills could make him a game-changer. Ethan Carter, the high school quarterback recruit, is another standout with his strong arm and smart plays.
How will the new players impact the team’s performance?
The new players strengthen both offense and defense. Transfers bring experience, while recruits add fresh talent. Together, they create a balanced and competitive team, ready to tackle tough opponents and aim for another championship.
What are the key games to watch this season?
📅 Mark your calendar for these matchups:
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🏈 Season Opener vs. UIW Cardinals: A test for the new lineup.
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🔥 Rivalry Game vs. South Dakota State: Always thrilling.
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🚨 Conference Clash vs. Montana State: A challenge for the defense.
How does the coaching staff help new players adjust?
The coaches focus on teamwork and skill development. They create personalized training plans and organize bonding activities. This helps new players feel welcome and ready to contribute to the team’s success.
Are there any local players on the roster?
Yes! Players like Jake Larson from Fargo, ND, and Sam Peterson from South Dakota bring local pride to the team. Their hard work and passion for the Bison make them valuable additions.
What can fans expect from the 2025 season?
Fans can expect an exciting season filled with thrilling games and standout performances. With a strong roster and smart coaching, the Bison are ready to compete for another championship. Get ready to cheer loud and proud!
How can I show my support for the Bison?
🎉 Show your pride with the North Dakota State Bison NCAA Custom Embroidered Sweatshirt by TOSCUSTOM™ Official. It’s perfect for game days or casual wear. Stay cozy while cheering for your favorite team in style!
🏈 Tip: Don’t miss out on this must-have sweatshirt for true Bison fans!