Bison Illustrated Podcast

'Tis the season, that special time of year, where the FCS Playoff Selection Committee draws the ire of fans across the nation with Selection Sunday barreling at us! Swany and Brady talk about a dominating Bison win at Youngstown State and the emergence of Cam Miller as one of the best QBs in the Missouri Valley. We talk about the Herd's huge matchup this weekend with a red-hot South Dakota team fresh off its Hail Mary win against the Jacks. We also dive deep into potential playoff scenarios and who's deserving of the Top 4 seeds. Swany tells you why the Selection Committee should put Sam Houston State and James Madison on the same side of the bracket as the No. 1 and No. 4 seeds, and then place South Dakota and South Dakota State in potential second round showdowns with the Bearkats and Dukes. We aim to make everyone torqued, this week, where champions come to podcast, the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

It's that age-old football cliche–unstoppable force meets immovable object. In this case, the immovable object is the historically good Bison defense versus the high-flying Jackrabbits offense. For the Bison to bring the Dakota Marker back to Fargo from Brookings, Code Green needs to clamp down on an SDSU attack that lit them up for more than 300 yards rushing last spring in Fargo. Cam Miller continued his strong play last week, throwing for three touchdowns. Swany and Brady talk about Miller's performance and the Bison offense looking like the unit we thought they'd be. We also discuss what, and who, will decide this game, and tell you why. Turn the radio up, and let's talk about the Rock, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

It's THE question among Bison fans this week after Cam Miller came off the bench to lead North Dakota State to two fourth quarter touchdowns in a 27-20 comeback win over Missouri State. Who will be the starting QB for the Herd going forward? Miller was an electric 7-of-9 in relief for 112 yards with two big scores to Phoenix Sproles and Christian Watson. Quincy Patterson tops NDSU in rushing through seven games, in yards and scoring, and piloted the Herd to big wins against North Dakota and Northern Iowa. Swany Says both QBs will be needed by the Bison if they are to return to Frisco. Swany and Brady recap Miller's performance, the QB questions, and the fact NDSU controls its own destiny when it comes to Dome-field advantage in the playoffs. The Missouri Valley Football Conference race is heating up, as the weather cools, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

A week after a 34-20 demolition of a Northern Iowa program on the rise, the Herd looks to spoil Illinois State's homecoming. Quincy Patterson torched the Panthers for four touchdowns, including a dynamite 85-yard precision guided bomb to Christian Watson. Watson, the most explosive offensive weapon in the FCS, finished with five catches for 163 yards and a score. A big punt return by Jayden Price, followed by a strip sack by Will Mostaert, setup two Bison touchdowns early in the second half. Swany and Brady talk about a Herd offense on the rise, and the suffocating Code Green/"Best Friends Defense." Swany says he expects NDSU's offense to be aggressive in attacking the Redbirds today, and ISU's problems getting off the field on third down will be costly against the Herd. Patterson's growing chemistry with his receivers, combined with his running skills and the Bison ground game, are heating up. The guys also discuss some surprise teams in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, and a slate of big matchups this weekend - including North Dakota at Southern Illinois, and South Dakota at UNI. The Bison offense continues the march, this week, where champions come to talk, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

North Dakota State ruined the University of North Dakota's party at the Alerus Center last weekend, riding a dominating performance from Code Green to a 16-10 win. The Herd did just enough offensively to down the Fighting Hawks, but will undoubtedly look for a stronger offensive showing this weekend against one of the hottest teams in the FCS, Northern Iowa. While the Herd has won seven in a row against the Panthers, the Bison will need to be on top of their game against a resurgent UNI team featuring new signal caller Theo Day. Day, a Michigan State transfer, led an explosive Panthers offense to a 34-7 thrashing on Saturday against Youngstown State. Swany and Brady deep dive into the UND game, some curious fourth down decision making, Code Green, and, of course, the Bison offense. The guys say that some fans need to back away from Crazy Town in going bonkers over a "mere" six point win against a Top 10 team and in-state rival. Swany Says the Herd will be tested by a very good Panthers team. The Herd looks for some homecoming fireworks of its own, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

North Dakota State kicks off Missouri Valley Football Conference play against in-state rival North Dakota. The Herd trounced the Hawks 34 - 13 last spring in Fargo, as the teams play for the second time in six months. It's a contrast of styles. While NDSU looks to pound the rock, the Hawks are actually throwing for more yards per contest than they're getting on the ground. Turnovers may be a big story as UND committed five against Drake last week. Swany and Brady break down the matchups within the game. Swany likes NDSU's defense against UND. Brady likes the Herd's ability to run the ball. The guys rewind the clock as Swany fondly remembers moments from yesteryear in the Bison v. Hawks series. Flush twice this week to make sure it gets all the way to Grand Forks, where champions come to podcast, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast.

North Dakota State won its opener in convincing fashion, riding the stalwart defensive effort by Code Green to a 28 – 6 victory over Albany. Quincy Patterson was solid in his debut as the Bison quarterback, while the Rams and running attack took things over in the second half. Swany and Brady go through what they liked about Saturday's win, which improved to NDSU 9-1 all-time against the CAA. Next up for the Herd is Valparaiso. The guys talk about the areas where they'd like to see the Herd make strides between games one and two, and tell you their go-to tailgating foods. The championship train keeps on chugging, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

In a spring season filled with ups-and-downs, the FCS crowned a new champ in Sam Houston. The Bearkats earned it by going through North Dakota State, James Madison, and South Dakota State. With that said, did we learn anything about the FCS landscape this fall with the unprecedented spring season. Swany and Nolan are joined by the newest member of the podcast team, Brady Drake (B-Drake), to discuss. Swany and Nolan see things quite differently as to the NDSU QB situation, and its impact on the fall. B-Drake with some dynamite insight on the Bison roster as a whole, and comments on the transfer portal. It's back to business, this week, where champions come to talk!

Despite a bevy of injuries, departures for the NFL Draft, and a key starter leaving for the transfer portal, North Dakota State was one play away from advancing to this year's FCS semifinals. With 23 freshmen and sophomores on the two-deep depth chart, the Herd fell agonizingly short at Sam Houston, 24-20. “Our young guys are our depth. It’s been a good thing, there have been growing pains at times, but it will all payoff in the long run,” said NDSU coach Matt Entz following a 42-20 playoff win against Eastern Washington. Swany is joined by the Bison Report's Ross Uglem to recap this spring, and talk about an awfully good football team coming back with big things in store this fall.

Stop me if you've Herd this one before. North Dakota State enters a big playoff game against Sam Houston State and the Bison offense imposes its will and physicality on the Bearkats. Will it be more of the same this Sunday in Huntsville in the FCS Quarterfinals, or is this year's version of SHSU different? With a roster loaded with young talent, the Herd seemingly found its footing and some momentum with an impressive 42-20 win over Eastern Washington. The question is, can NDSU build off last week's performance. Swany Says yes, it's boat racing time! Nolan expects a closer fight. We close with some NFL Draft talk, and what it means for NDSU to have Trey Lance, Dillon Radunz, and Jabil Cox be high round picks. It's Bison Pride, coast to coast, this week, where champions come to talk!

Relive North Dakota State's dominating FCS playoff win over Eastern Washington. We told you Saturday morning on Herd It Hear with Swany, in a passionate sermon, to keep the faith. We told you that NDSU would own the line of scrimmage. The Rams plowed the road as the Herd rushed 57 times for 422 yards, scoring the final 35 points of the contest. Code Green held the high-powered Eagles attack to only 64 yards in the second half. Former Bison All-American safety James Hendricks joined the show, telling us the keys defensively to keeping Barriere in check. He was right. Hear pregame sound from NDSU coach Matt Entz, EWU coach Aaron Best, and Bison quarterback Cam Miller. The Bison advance to play Sam Houston State next Sunday, May 2, on ESPN at 2:00 p.m.

To paraphrase the great Vince Lombardi, what the hell is going on here? Welcome to the Missouri Valley, where everyone can crown themselves champs! UND and Missouri State are showering themselves with make believe titles after falling by a combined 59-13 to North Dakota State, while not playing in the league's closing week. For their part, UND hasn't won a game since March 13, but coasts into the playoffs with a 4-1 mark. Don't blame the schools, blame the Valley and NCAA for not planning for this. Does any of that matter, though? The real MVFC title will be played in Fargo this weekend between the Bison and Jacks in another epic bout for the Dakota Marker. Swany and Nolan talk about how SDSU's month long layoff impacts the game, and whether NDSU playing last week gives them an advantage. Swany goes all Paul Harvey, sharing some unknown --- and hilarious --- stories about the Dakota Marker, its inception, and some crazy early Dakota Marker games in Brookings. Prepare to be entertained, this week, where true champions (sorry Mo. State) come to talk!

For the first time in three weeks, North Dakota State has a football game. Tied atop the Missouri Valley Football Conference with three other teams, the Herd takes on Northern Iowa in a marquee matchup in a game with major consequences on their quest for a tenth straight conference title. The Herd does so with a lot of outside noise and potential distractions, from the transfer portal to an unprecedented spring season. For the Bison to come out of Cedar Falls with a win, they'll need to protect the football, pick-up offensively where they left off on March 20 against the University of North Dakota, and quickly shake off any rust from the three week layoff. Swany is joined by 740 The Fan's Chase Miller to discuss how the transfer portal will change the landscape of college football, and the guys discuss how field position and special teams will play a big role against the Panthers. Dig in with the big spoons, because it's Bison Game Day on Herd It Hear with Swany!

Dom Izzo, from WDAY TV, joins the podcast as our special guest. Dom has had a front row seat as one of the trusted voices and fan favorites covering every major happening in the area sports scene, including North Dakota State, for over a decade. Swany and Nolan ask Dom about everything from the state of the FCS spring season, the transfer portal changing the landscape of college football and hoops going forward, where Trey Lance goes in the NFL Draft, and why the FBS makes sense for NDSU. Prepare to have some knowledge dropped on you, this week, where champions come to podcast!

For the second straight week, North Dakota State had to postpone or cancel a football game because of Covid-19. The rest of the FCS is also feeling Covid-19's impact as other programs are losing games, or pulling the plug on their spring season all together. There's a heated debate from the media and fans alike whether the spring season should continue. Swany and Nolan discuss the very fluid situation. The takeaway? There are no easy answers - not yet, anyway. We tell you why the FCS isn't at the point that it should cancel the playoffs, but it's getting dangerously close. We wrap by talking about Oral Roberts run to the Sweet 16 and what it means for NDSU and the rest of the Summit League. To play, or not to play, this week, where champions come to talk!

On this special bonus podcast from Herd It Hear With Swany on 740AM The Fan, we've got more Bison talk. The doom and gloom talk talk from a month ago has been replaced by a new sense of doom and gloom throughout the FCS. Maybe it was a bad idea to poke a Herd of Bison. North Dakota State (5-1) gloriously romped the University of North Dakota, dominating all three phases of the game in a 34-13 victory. Behind the rams and a devastating ground attack, the Herd piled up 316 rushing yards on 54 carries, including three touchdowns. This weekend, the Bison look to take that next step against the University of South Dakota in a key Missouri Valley Football Conference road game. Under the banner "Right Now Means Everything," the Herd are a motivated football team on a mission. We told you it was a mistake to doubt this team. Swany is joined by Chase Miller from 740AM The Fan, and the guys talk about today's matchup against the Coyotes.

Mike McFeely is one of the deans of local and regional media. He's covered everything from North Dakota State to national political campaigns. He stops by the podcast to take questions from Bison fans on everything from a potential FBS move and NDSU's spring football season to the perception from some Bison fans that he "hates NDSU." We ask Mike whether he thinks the Bison will get back to Frisco this spring. His answer might surprise you, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast.

What a great week to be a Bison! The North Dakota State men are playing in their third straight Summit League Tournament championship game with a spot in March Madness at stake. We tell you how the Bison got there, and what to look for in the title game against Oral Roberts. The Bison Football team returned to its winning ways with a 25-0 shutdown win against Missouri State. The Herd looks to keep things rolling this weekend against Illinois State. And as if that wasn't enough, Trey Lance, Dillon Radunz, and Marquise Bridges will be competing in front of 27 NFL teams at this Friday's Bison Pro Day at the Fargodome. Let's cut down some nets, this week, where champions come to talk!

North Dakota State suffered its first loss since 2017 as Southern Illinois ended the Herd's 39-game win streak. Was it just a bad day for the Bison, or signs of something deeper? While the game was about as far from pretty as its gets, Swany and Nolan say one bad day does not a season make. While we'll leave the X's and O's to the coaches, NDSU needs to come out with some fire against Missouri State. The Bison hoops teams head to Sioux Falls for the Summit League Tournament, where David Richman and his guys look to notch a three-peat, and the women look to advance deep into the tourney. It's the start of March Madness, this week, where champions come to talk!

Carson Wentz will be wearing the blue and white of the Indianapolis Colts. Swany and Nolan tell you why the Colts are instantly a strong contender in the AFC to make a Super Bowl run with the former North Dakota State signal caller. Speaking of quarterbacks, Zeb Noland will make his Bison debut this Sunday against Youngstown State. Swany doesn't expect the Bison will dial it back or play conservative. He expects the Herd to let it rip! Nolan breaks down the Code Green defense and new faces that will emerge. We wrap up with some Summit League hoops talk as both the Bison men and women control their own destiny for a top seed at the Summit League Tourney! It's a stampede of Bison goodness, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

Everybody up for the kickoff, the march is on! North Dakota State sets its sights on its 10th straight Missouri Valley Football Conference title, and 9th National Title in 10 years, when it opens the winter/spring season against Youngstown State. Swany and Nolan talk about the big storylines headed into February football. Swany Says he'll be watching the NDSU offensive line. Nolan thinks the Herd will be solid in the trenches. The guys talk about a new starting QB, Zeb Noland, and the weapons in the Bison offense, and how opposing teams may look to attack Code Green, the vaunted Bison defense. Finally, the guys give their take on the Summit League race, including a men's field where either of four teams (NDSU, SDSU, USD, or ORU) could cut down the nets in March. Turn up the heaters, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

On this week's Bison Illustrated Podcast brought to you by Scheels, it's heavy Bison Football talk. The good folks at the Reese's Senior Bowl like to say, "The Road to the [NFL] Draft Starts in Mobile." Last week, in Mobile, we learned the Road to the Draft is coming to Fargo after North Dakota State football alums Dillon Radunz and Jabril Cox notched impressive performances that skyrocketed their draft stock faster than Game Stop. Add in a potential Top 5 pick in former Bison QB Trey Lance, NDSU could have three players taken in the Top 40 draft picks. Swany and Nolan talk about what the means for the program and community. The guys also discuss Bison hoops as the men and women are coming off splits in Kansas City, setting up a huge weekend home series against Oral Roberts that will go a long ways in the conference standings. Finally, we wrap with an update on Carson Wentz, and how the Philadelphia Eagles need to firmly commit to their franchise QB. All that, and a whole lot more, this week, where champions come to talk.

Swany and Nolan discuss former NDSU great Joe Haeg's Tampa Bay Buccaneers advancing to the Super Bowl. The guys recap another big weekend for Bison hoops as the men swept Denver, and the women had a convincing bounce back victory on Saturday night. Both teams find themselves in contention for the Summit League's top spot midway through league play. With football just around the corner, and several FCS stalwarts like Montana and Montana State opting out of the spring season, we tell you what that could mean. Tune in and turn up the guys that always go for it on fourth down, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast.

Just as we were heating up, covid intervened and sidelined Swany for a few weeks. But we're back, covid free, and ready to sling some truth! So here it is ... North Dakota State hoops is, through the early conference slate, owning the Summit. While there are plenty of games left to go, Dave Richman's team isn't showing any signs of a rebuild, and Jory Collins squad is coming up on the Rushmore monsters faster than a stampede. The guys break it down, and talk about a common theme for both programs --- balance. On any given night, it's a different Bison leading the way, which makes the Herd very dangerous. It's a hoops haven, and we wrap with some football talk, this week, where champions come to talk, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

It's the Bison Illustrated Christmas Extravaganza! We bring you all kinds of glorious North Dakota State talk that will have you smiling holiday cheer ear-to-ear. The Bison women are back, in a big way, with a Power 5 win against the Kansas Jayhawks. We talk about their bright future. Swany & Nolan then talk about how the Bison men are coming into form as they head into a Power 5 matchup of their own against TCU. Reaching deep into Santa's Sleigh, the guys recap the Herd's big recruiting week with talent that could compete for a Mountain West crown (Hey, San Jose State just won that league). If the Mountain West sent NDSU a note saying, "Do you like me? Check 'Yes,' 'No,' or 'Maybe,'" what box would you check Bison Nation? Throw on another Yule log, fill the Egg Nog, and listen to the gift that keeps on giving, Clark! Here, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

North Dakota State beats another Power 5 program for a big-time recruit. So what else is new? Bison Football inked a high caliber recruiting class to keep the Championship Train on the tracks. The Herd invaded the Cornhusker State and bested Scott Frost for a QB stud from Omaha. Swany Says that NDSU has been a better football team than Nebraska for a decade. The guys talk about a nice weekend in Sioux Falls for Bison hoops, and the Bison women getting votes in the Top 25. Swany and Nolan wrap the bow on this present by discussing the momentum building around NDSU moving to FBS. All that, and chestnuts roasting above the open fire --- just watch out for SDSU's nut slapping Noah Freidel --- on this week's podcast.

After a fall devoid of North Dakota State sports talk, the Herd is back in a big way. The Bison women are off to a scorching 3-0 start under Jory Collins, and deserve to be rated in the Mid-Major Top 25. The Bison men nearly upset college hoops blue blood Kansas, falling agonizingly short at Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence. The Herd takes on rivals South Dakota State and North Dakota this week in Sioux Falls in a round robin featuring all four D-I Dakota schools. Swany and Nolan cap this episode by discussing a national football media that, writ large, are seemingly taking delight in Carson Wentz's tough year after the Eagles pulled North Dakota's favorite son from their Sunday game against the Packers. Swany tells you why he thinks Wentz will rebound from this, and make the experts eat their words down the road. It's the Festivus Airing of Grievances, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

There's no way to soft sell it. With North Dakota's spiking covid numbers, unless something changes, the ability of North Dakota State to play an eight-game football schedule this winter is in serious doubt. It's a numbers game, and the State of North Dakota is not on the right side of the numbers. If the current situation remains the same, or worsens, the prospects of seeing the Bison --- and another trip to Frisco --- are in jeopardy. Swany and Nolan discuss the stark realities, and talk about some of their Halloween favorites. This week, there's plenty of tricks and treats, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

North Dakota State quarterback Trey Lance became the highest profile player in College Football this year to declare for the NFL Draft. The Bison quarterback and Walter Payton award winner led the Herd to a 39-28 victory over a Top 10-ranked Central Arkansas squad, accounting for nearly 300 total yards and 4 touchdowns. Lance is expected to be a first round NFL Draft pick this spring. Swany and Nolan discuss NDSU's only game this fall, their takeaways, and what they're looking forward to for the eight game spring Missouri Valley Football Conference schedule.

North Dakota State finds itself in the national spotlight this weekend as Trey Lance and the Bison take on Central Arkansas. Nearly 2/3 of NFL teams will have scouts at the Fargodome to watch Lance, Dillon Radunz, and the rest of the Herd. The Bison will raise their 8th national championship banner in nine years, and display their high-powered offensive machine. Swany takes the debate stage to tell you why NDSU is holding itself back by staying FCS. Oh, and we preview the key storylines headed into the only Bison Football game this fall. It will be one of the most watched, and unique, games in NDSU history. Sit back and enjoy something positive, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast.

With the FCS keeping its spring schedule (for now), the NCAA announced a 16-team playoff. That begs this question: should all 10 FCS conferences get an auto-bid to the playoffs, or should the best 16 teams --- no matter the conference --- be taken. Swany and Nolan debate the merits, and answer the question. The guys also lament the fact Sioux Falls landed the Battle for Atlantis college hoops tourney this year, which includes Duke, Creighton, Ohio State, Texas A&M, and West Virginia. Swany Says it's time Fargo stepped up its game and matched what the Sioux Falls Sports Authority is doing to land so many big-time events. Why aren't Fargo leaders doing that? It's big-time economic development for Sioux Falls, as well, and drives things like conventions, trade shows, conferences, and more marquee events. Finally, the guys pay tribute to former Bison basketball player Jordan Aaberg, who died unexpectedly last week at only 29-years old. Lots of heartfelt talk, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast.

Bruce Feldman, a college football extraordinaire with The Athletic, says North Dakota State's game against Central Arkansas is the best nonconference matchup in all of college football. Swany and Nolan contemplate the meaning in this, and discuss the hype that's already building for the October 3 contest. The guys also talk about the "rock and a hard place" decision facing NDSU as to the number of fans in the Fargodome stands. Interwoven in this audio tapestry are fond memories of Maverick --- Swany's son --- unloading a diaper bomb on his favorite old, worn-out jeans, along with this intriguing scenario: what beer tastes the best under what situations ... is it that anticipatory airport getaway beer, the just-got-done mowing my lawn beer, or the "hey, it's homecoming, let's do a shower-beer" beer. We have some fun this week, where champions come to podcast, the Bison Illustrated Podcast.

Another week, another round of national media attention for North Dakota State. On SportsCenter, ESPN's Scott Van Pelt framed NDSU's game against Central Arkansas thusly: "October 3. Fargo, North Dakota. Mark it down. The NFL already has," said Van Pelt. Bison head coach Matt Entz was on the Dan Patrick Show, and Full Ride with Rick Neuheisel and Chris Childers on XM84 was heavy on Bison talk. Swany and Nolan discuss the importance of this game, the storylines, and reaction from Bison Nation that extends to the highest levels of football. Fill the coolers and fire up the grills, we got a game, friends! And more, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

The question looms overhead like the Sword of Damocles, will we see any North Dakota State football games --- or any college football games --- in 2020? Swany and Nolan are back, and more mediocre than ever, talking about the state of affairs and the lack of any good options on the table for a viable college football season this fall. There are no easy decisions facing college presidents, administrators, coaches, and players across the county as the college sports world grapples with if, how, and when the games go on. Are we seeing a sea change, and watershed moment, where players take control of the multi-billion dollar a year sport? When we emerge from the Covid-19 aftermath, what does the college athletics landscape look like? We don't shy away from a debate on the big issues, this week, or any week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

Swany and Chase are joined by Sam Herder from HERO Sports. The guys talk about HERO Sports Preseason Top 25, North Dakota State's spot at No. 1, and who could challenge the Bison. The Missouri Valley Football Conference, who had the three top teams in the Top 25, is loaded with potential playoff teams. The college football landscape has been deeply impacted by this week's events surrounding the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. As peaceful protesters marched in Fargo, they were joined by several Bison. Swany Says we got their backs, and gives a heartfelt explanation why he supports the rights of every athlete and coach to have their voice heard. There's no such thing as "staying in your lane" here. This is all of our lane, and there's no room for racism in it. Join the dialogue, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Thundering Herdcast Podcast.

Much has been made about North Dakota State's Trey Lance in recent weeks, including his rising NFL Draft profile. What the experts should also know --- and what has other FCS coaches crying themselves to sleep --- is that the Bison return a loaded and veteran group on offense that averaged over 37 points per game last fall. This Bison offense would give Power 5 FBS schools fits with its size, athleticism, depth, and playmaking ability. Swany and Nolan are joined by 740AM The Fan's Chase Miller. The guys go over the latest on the status of this fall's college football season, and do an early breakdown of the Bison on both sides of the ball. All that, and Swany's take on why NCAA President Mark Emmert's failure to provide strong leadership right now is spelling the beginning of the end of the NCAA as we know it! It's a hole-in-one, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

North Dakota State's football program is no stranger to the national spotlight. Things got even brighter this week after ESPN's venerable Mel Kiper Jr. told Mike Greenberg that NDSU's Trey Lance could be in a three-man race for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Believe that! Swany, Nolan, and Chase Miller talk about Lance's surge, and how he'll be surrounded with plenty of offensive firepower. The guys switch gears to recap a big week for Bison hoops as Dave Richman added two new assistant coaches, and some key pieces to their two-time defending Summit League champion roster. Fire up the grills, pull up a lawn chair, and crack a cool one with your pals at the Bison Illustrated Thundering Herdcast Podcast!

North Dakota State continues getting national attention for its football prowess. Most recently, The Athletic's Bruce Feldman profiled NDSU QB Trey Lance, saying the Walter Payton winner is on NFL radars. Swany and Nolan are joined by Chase Miller from 740AM The Fan to talk about it, along with the Draft Prospects of several of Lance's teammates, including Derrek Tuszka and Ben Ellefson. The guys speculate on how/when sports could return, and recap the awesomeness that were Episodes 1 and 2 of ESPN's groundbreaking documentary of the 1990s Chicago Bulls, "The Last Dance." Take a break from your stay at home blues with the some rock solid Bison talk, here, on The Bison Illustrated/Thundering Herdcast Podcast!

The guys are back with regular podcasts to provide a little light and distraction from what's been some tough news cycles. Swany and Nolan are joined by 740AM The Fan's Chase Miller. The guys cover a wide range of topics, including what might have been had March Madness not been cancelled. Swany Says the Bison would've won two games, advancing to the Sweet 16. The guys discuss the retirement of NDSU's legendary track and field coach, Don Larson, who's stepping down after 41 years! at the helm. We wrap up with some NDSU football talk. Take a break, even for a few minutes, this week, on the Bison Illustrated/Thundering Herdcast!

If you could tell NDSU's Jabril Cox why he should stay a Bison, what would you say? It's heartbreak city for Herd fans as Swany and Nolan discuss Cox, a fan favorite, putting his name in the NCAA Transfer Portal. Swany shares what he would tell Jabril after Bison fans were blindsided by the announcement. Swany and Nolan also address the steamy horse nugget garbage that transferring raises Cox's draft profile ... after all, Carson Wentz was the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft only a few years ago. If you can play, you can play, and if you're a First Round guy, you're a First Round guy whether you play at NDSU, LSU, Alabama, or Alcorn State. In happier news, the guys shift gears talking March Madness, and the Bison men's team looking to cut down some nets (again) in Sioux Falls. We preview the tournament, tell you the keys for NDSU getting back to the Big Dance, and share hilarious stories from our trips to the Denny covering the tourney. Find solace and comfort, this week. on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

The good folks at Bison Illustrated proudly announce their special edition 2019 FCS Championship commemorative issue, telling the story of North Dakota State's 16-0 season and 16th National Title, which hits newsstands in days! Swany and Nolan give you a sneak peak, and tell you where to find the digital issue online. The guys also go all Jay Bilas on the red hot Summit League race, as NDSU and South Dakota State are tied atop the standings with only a few games left in the regular season. The conference tournament in Sioux Falls will be wide open. We tell you why the Bison have an advantage, listen up Joe Lunardi, and should be favored to get back to March Madness. Get ready for some madness, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast.

We make you stop, collaborate and listen for this brand new edition of the Bison Illustrated Podcast. Swany and Nolan talk about the jumbled race for the Summit League regular season title and four teams, including North Dakota State, gunning for the No. 1 seed in Sioux Falls. The guys talk about a big stretch for the Herd as they take on Omaha and Oral Roberts. Swany also has a special message for everyone pining for the good old days of the Bison Sports Arena, and some football recruiting talk. Beat the polar bear days of February, this week, with your favorite Bison Podcast!

In what was supposed to be a rebuilding year, the Bison became the first team in nearly 125 years to finish a season 16-0, capturing the FCS National Championship in a showdown against James Madison. With NDSU winning its eighth national title in nine years, the guys ask: can anyone stop the Bison? The greatest dynasty in the history of College Football shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, just the opposite, the Bison are positioned to get stronger in coming years. In a tough sports week, the guys shift gears, opening with a heartfelt discussion on the tragic death of Kobe Bryant and eight others, including his daughter Gigi, in a helicopter crash near Los Angeles, and Bryant's impact on the world beyond basketball.

Toss the stats and records out the window because nothing less than the fate of the FCS world is at stake! It's Rocky v. Ivan Drago, the Globetrotters v. the Washington Generals, and the Sons of Liberty v. The Red Coats all rolled into one. North Dakota State. James Madison. The championship collision draws near, and only one team will emerge with the much-coveted championship trophy. Putting the hyperbole aside, the outcome of this game will shape the FCS narrative for next year, and potentially beyond. Will North Dakota State cast aside the would-be usurpers, or will James Madison show it can beat NDSU in Frisco. With so many stories, the intrigue abounds! What playmakers will shine bright? Can each team counterpunch when adversity strikes, and, or course, the chess-match between two coaching staffs. Pull up a chair, pop the top, and saddle up with your pals at the Bison Illustrated Podcast as we bring you the FCS CHAMPIONSHIP EXTRAVAGANZA!

All season, North Dakota State and James Madison have separated themselves by leaps and bounds from the rest of the FCS. Only one, though, can emerge victorious as the National Champion. It's a heavyweight battle with two seasoned teams. What will be the difference between the Bison and Dukes? At least statistically, they are nearly equal in every category from total offense, total defense, third-down conversion percentage, to red zone efficiency. Each roster is filled with playmakers that can tip the scales, and each team is staffed with high-caliber coaches. Swany and Nolan preview the matchup, and tell you what will be the difference, and why, in Frisco. Giddy up for one helluva football game, folks, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

Get in the Christmas and holiday spirit by enjoying North Dakota State's 42-14 semifinal thumping of Montana State all over again! On this special Bison Illustrated Podcast, we replay Saturday's Herd It Hear with Swany. Swany is joined by Nolan, and 740AM The Fan's Chase Miller, live from Buffalo Wild Wings where the guys discuss an already historic season, and foreshadow the offensive fireworks from the Bison against the Bobcats. Swany has a special message for Bison Nation, telling the Herd to enjoy this team and moment. It's a Ho-Ho-Ho great time on this special Bison Illustrated Podcast!

In this special joint Bison Illustrated/Thundering Herdcast, it's one of the best weeks of the year for Bison Nation: semifinal week! All that's standing in the Bison's way on the Road to Frisco is a resurgent Montana State program and their garbage-talking head coach, Jeff Choate. Choate made headlines when he whined about NDSU's winning ways, saying the Bison were bad for the FCS. Choate went so far to say that the semifinals should be played at a neutral site. Swany Says Choate is a big cry baby. Will Choate's comments be a distraction, serve as bulletin board material, or are they much ado about nothing? Swany and Nolan are joined by Chase Miller from 740AM The Fan. The group talks about Code Green's dominance this playoff season, and the inconsistency from the NDSU offense and red zone woes. The key to this game, and getting back to Frisco, rests with the Rams -- NDSU's offensive line, and converting in the red zone. Get ready for the party with your pals at the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

North Dakota State is in the National Quarterfinals for the tenth straight year, and in pursuit of their eighth national championship in nine seasons. Standing between the Bison and another trip to the national semis is a familiar foe, James Robinson and the Illinois State Redbirds. The high-powered Bison offense is looking for a faster start after their second round win over Nicholls State, while ISU looks to feed the rock to Robinson. It's no secret what these teams plan to do. The only question is, who will executer cleaner and keep moving on The Road To Frisco. Swany and Nolan think the Bison come out gangbusters this week. It's the most wonderful time of the year, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast.

North Dakota State and James Madison have separated themselves from the field this season. The top two seeds in this year's FCS playoffs look for a rematch of their epic playoff games in 2016 and 2017. Swany and Nolan go through the field, and tell you why NDSU's Road to Frisco has fewer stumbling blocks than JMU's. Swany Says that the Dukes will have a tough quarterfinal matchup against either South Dakota State or Northern Iowa, and predicts a Valley surprise. We tell you who will be lifting the national championship trophy, and why, on this week's Bison Illustrated Podcast!

North Dakota State can become the first team in FCS history to finish the regular season 12-0. The Bison face a tough test from a playoff worthy foe in Southern Illinois. While NDSU and James Madison appear to have the No. 1 and No. 2 seeds in the FCS playoffs locked up, the Herd wants an exclamation point and the momentum heading into the postseason. Even with their historic success, this Bison team is blazing its own path with the No. 1-ranked scoring offense and No. 1-ranked total defense in the FCS. This squad is a complete team in every sense of the word. Swany and Nolan recap a special regular season, and turn an eye towards the playoffs. Start your Thanksgiving celebration a few days early with this cornucopia of goodness with your turkey-loving pals on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!

Another week, another dominating performance. NDSU piled up 690 yards in a 57-21 win against Western Illinois, improving their record to 10-0. It's Senior Day this weekend at the Dome as the Herd faces South Dakota, with a win clinching at least a share of NDSU's ninth straight league title. Swany and Nolan talk about how special this Bison team is, and how they're getting better each week with the emergence of playmakers, including Christian Watson, who is establishing himself as one of the best WRs in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. The guys go over potential playoff scenarios, including who would outbid who to host a first round playoff game between South Dakota State and North Dakota. With the temps cooling down, playoff fever is heating up, this week, on the Bison Illustrated Podcast!