NDSU Bison Defense Leads FBS in Red Zone Stats

North Dakota State University’s defensive unit is performing at a level that rivals the top programs in the Football Bowl Subdivision.

The Bison are currently second in the FBS in points allowed per game, sitting behind only their conference rival New Mexico. NDSU has conceded 11.89 points per game over its first nine contests. New Mexico holds the top spot with an average of 11.88. If one subtracts the three defensive touchdowns allowed by NDSU, the Bison’s average drops to 9.67 points per game.

This defensive output stands out despite a recent slide in results for the offense. The Bison entered this season undefeated in their first five games but have lost two of their last four. Injuries have accumulated rapidly, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. During the second half of a 31-7 victory over UTEP last Saturday, 60% of the offensive line positions were filled by backups. The team’s fourth-string running back carried the workload while the quarterback played through two injuries.

Defensive coordinator Grant Olson’s scheme relies on a veteran front that returned significant talent. The group includes Keenan Wilson, Logan Larson, Donovan Woolen, and Darius Givance. Givance has been out for the past three games with an injury. Woolen, who plays middle linebacker, has emerged as a candidate for the Mountain West defensive player of the year award. His range across the field has drawn attention from conference observers.

Marion Moore at cornerback has settled the question regarding that position. He has recorded five interceptions and two defensive touchdowns. One of those scores came on a 56-yard fumble return against UTEP. Ray James Jr. and Gavin Sell have also provided strong play at linebacker, while Deron Russell has been effective at cornerback.

The statistical profile of the defense is strong in high-leverage areas. NDSU ranks first in the FBS in red zone defense, allowing opponents to score on 62.5% of possessions inside the 20-yard line. The team is also first in passing efficiency defense and is tied for the fewest touchdown passes allowed, with four. In nine games, the defense has surrendered 11 total touchdowns, split between four rushing and seven receiving. NDSU ranks second nationally in total defense, allowing 248.8 yards per game.

The team faces a challenging schedule in the final stretch. They are favored in their remaining three games against Hawaii, Northern Illinois, and San Jose State. However, two of those contests are on the road. The Bison play at Hawaii next week before hosting Northern Illinois and then traveling to San Jose State.

Woolen noted the team’s focus on execution. "You could definitely see it," Woolen said. "I just knew we had to go out there and execute every single week and trust the coaching. Whatever coach Olson calls, we have to go out and execute and it allows us to be able to make plays like that and be able to score on defense. That’s awesome."

Historical context suggests this group is among the best in program history. In the FCS era, only four NDSU teams allowed fewer than 12 points per game. Those seasons were 2011, 2013, 2017, and 2021. The current roster’s depth and experience provide a statistical edge that the team is attempting to convert into wins before the transfer portal opens for offseason moves.