(STATS) - There's more than a glimmer of hope outside Fargo, North Dakota, for teams that expect to be FCS national title contenders next season.

Sure, you've heard that idea before while North Dakota State's dynasty has reeled off a record seven FCS championship seasons in the last eight years.

But the Bison have to replace their largest senior class - 24 members deep, including quarterback Easton Stick, the all-time wins leader for an FCS quarterback - and they're transitioning to a new coach, Matt Entz, who's been promoted from defensive coordinator with Chris Klieman off to take over at Kansas State.