Since 2004, 14 schools have transitioned from NCAA Division II to FCS. Two teams, Tarleton and Utah Tech, are entering their final season of the transition process. Only four of these 16 programs have posted winning records during each of their first three transition seasons.
One of those programs is North Dakota State, which has established itself as a powerhouse while winning nine national championships since 2011. The reigning national champions, South Dakota State, accomplished the feat along with perennial FCS playoff contender Central Arkansas.