We lost to Cinci in 81, 82 & 85. Won in '84. I will need to look up the other game, but I swear we played Missouri, or someone similar. The point that I am making is that there are too many colleges and too little talent spread around. College ball is too big. Look an NFL coach can build his team around any QB (a look at last year's Eagles will show you that), but does anyone here honestly think that Wentz was NFL material? I am not so certain he was even the best QB in the MVFC for 3 of his 4 years in college. Had NDSU remained DII or not have been so successful over the years would Wentz be in the NFL? Doubt it. The old system of DI vs D-II or small college vs college put YSU in the top half; today we are not even in the top half of DI (FBS) with the supposedly better teams making the jump to FBS, which is what started this conversation. None the less, if you have the ability, the pro's will find you.
With such a gap, a smaller school has to distinguish itself, like NDSU with wins. Like YSU, with the last name of our coach. Don't laugh, it's true and the only reason Strollo took the chance. Players under Pelini will get a second-look by the scouts. At least an honest look.