Bison Head to Nashville for Saturday Showdown at Nissan Stadium

North Dakota State’s top-ranked Bison travel to Nashville, Tenn., to face Tennessee State Tigers today, Sept. 6, at 1:30 p.m. CT in a non-conference tilt at Nissan Stadium.

As the defending FCS national champions, the Bison (1-0) aim to extend their winning streak after a 38-0 season-opening shutout at The Citadel. Tennessee State (1-0) arrives fresh off a 24-21 win over North Carolina A&T in the John A. Merritt Classic.

Key Storylines

  • Bison’s ground game vs. Tiger defense: NDSU averaged 5.4 yards per carry last week, led by Barika Kpeenu’s two touchdowns. Can the Tigers’ front seven contain the rushing attack?
  • Quarterback duel: Cole Payton dazzled in his first start with nearly 300 yards of total offense. Opposite him, Jonathan Palmer orchestrated Tennessee State’s upset win with an 82-yard touchdown pass.
  • Homecoming away from home: Nissan Stadium will host a crowd exceeding 8,000, giving the Tigers a home-field vibe inside the NFL venue. NDSU last played in Nashville in 2024’s Trees Bowl.

What to Watch

  • Third-down efficiency: NDSU held The Citadel to just 2 of 12 conversions.
  • Turnover margin: The Tigers forced three turnovers in Week 1; a positive turnover battle could swing momentum.
  • Special teams impact: A long field goal or blocked kick could prove decisive in a tightly contested second matchup.

The Bison seek their 11th conference title in 12 seasons under coach Matt Entz and will lean on their trademark physicality to overtake the Tigers on Saturday afternoon.