The general thought for many FBS programs is to schedule an early season nonconference opponent from a lower level, dole out a couple hundred thousand bucks and bask in the blowout of an overmatched opponent.
It's a simple formula, really. Fill the stadium, collect the gate and build confidence on the path toward bowl eligibility and beyond. What could go wrong?
Scheduling North Dakota State, for one thing.
Since 2010, the Bison have played five different FBS opponents on the road. North Dakota State has won all five games. Grand total in guaranteed payouts: $1.675 million.