North Dakota State's first spring practice begins, with questions about the team's transition to the Mountain West Conference and a higher level of football. The team still has the same head coach in Tim Polasek, the same offensive and defensive coordinators, Dan Larson and Grant Olson. The key question is whether the senior quarterback will be the starter for one year, succeeding in the position held by Cole Payton and Cam Miller. The offensive line will also be affected by the departure of key players Beau Johnson and Trent Fraley, with Griffin Empey moving to center. Sophomore Ryan Babatz has been groomed to take over at a tackle spot, while Kene Anene could be a potential replacement. The Bison also brought in Keith Williams from Cornell and Gavin Sell from Fargo North.