NDSU Bison defense ranks second in FBS despite offensive struggles

North Dakota State allows 11.89 points per game, a figure that places the Bison second in the Football Bowl Subdivision behind only New Mexico. This defensive efficiency stands in stark contrast to an offense that has faltered in the second half of the season.

After starting the year undefeated, NDSU is 2-2 in its last four games. The team is dealing with a wave of injuries that has forced the use of backups at critical positions. In the second half of a 31-7 win over UTEP, 60% of the offensive line started with backups, and the fourth-string running back carried the ball while the quarterback managed two injuries.

Defensive coordinator Grant Olson’s unit is the primary reason the Bison remain favored in their final three games. NDSU is scheduled to play at Hawaii, host Northern Illinois, and travel to San Jose State. The team aims for a 10-2 record, a feat that seems unlikely given the current state of the roster but is supported by the statistical dominance on the defensive side of the ball.

The Bison rank first in the FBS in red zone defense, allowing opponents to score on only 62.5% of possessions inside the 20-yard line. They are also first in passing efficiency defense and tied for the fewest touchdown passes allowed in the conference, with just four. Across nine games, the defense has permitted 11 total touchdowns, consisting of four rushing and seven receiving.

Cornerback Marion Moore has emerged as a key figure, recording five interceptions and two defensive touchdowns. Middle linebacker Donovan Woolen is also leading the Mountain West in defensive play, with his sideline-to-sideline range earning him consideration for conference defensive player of the year. Woolen credited the coaching staff for the unit’s success, stating, “Whatever coach Olson calls, we have to go out and execute and it allows us to be able to make plays like that.”

Historically, only four NDSU teams in the FCS era have allowed fewer than 12 points per game. The current Bison are on pace to match or beat those marks from 2011, 2013, 2017, and 2021. New Mexico, the only team ranked above NDSU in points allowed, recently defeated the Bison 21-16 in Albuquerque, proving that even this top-tier defense can be tested by a fellow conference member.

The Bison face a challenging stretch ahead with two of their final three games played on the road. The team relies on its defensive front seven to cover for an offense that has struggled with depth and health. As the season moves toward its conclusion, the statistical record suggests that the defense remains the most reliable component of the roster.