nwray1 said:
It's a question I've thought a lot about as well. As more of their people show up on the board, it'll be interesting to get their insights.
I think it's a combination of a lot of things. First and foremost, they are a program dedicated to success and have a fanbase that moves in lockstep with the program. They always sell out. I'm sure recruits perceive NDSU as a fun place to play. The student body also seems to be totally invested in the football program.
Second, they have had solid coaching. Beyond that, they have really been innovators on defense. I'd never seen anyone run the overload quite like them and so often in a game. You're seeing a lot more of that type of defense now as a way to shut down spread option teams. While I wouldn't say NDSU pioneered it, they certainly made it their own style and have shown how effective it can be. They win games by shutting teams down, and let's face it, most championships are won through superior defense.
Lastly, I think they benefit from being in an area where there aren't many dominant FBS teams to snare the top kids. Really, behind Wisconsin and Iowa, they look as attractive as anyone. Minnesota, Purdue, Northwestern, Illinois, Iowa State, are those teams that are destinations for two and three star talent... or would you rather go to NDSU? I'm sure many kids get hung up on the FBS/BCS moniker, but many just want to play good football and win games, and NDSU certainly offers that.
