SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The paint is finally dry on Plaster Stadium. The new turf has been laid, with its maroon end zones, the Missouri State logo across midfield and “C-USA” emblazoned at the 25-yard lines. All the technological upgrades are completed, ready for the Bears to play their home opener against SMU of the Atlantic Coast Conference in less than a month.
These are the tangible signposts ushering in a new era for the school’s football program.
There are more, less obvious ones that are accompanying Missouri State’s move from the Football Championship Subdivision, the lower level of NCAA Division I, to the top-tier Football Bowl Subdivision, one that comes during perhaps the most tumultuous time ever in college sports.
There’s the money flowing into players’ pockets, a byproduct of legislation related to name, image and likeness compensation, as well as the recent House v. NCAA antitrust lawsuit settlement, which allows schools to share up to $20.5 million with its athletes over the next year alone. There is increased pressure on coaching staffs to land higher-caliber athletes from both high school and the transfer portal. There are more demanding travel schedules and, yes, tougher opposition than the Bears have faced at any point in their 116-year history.
“Ultimately, us and Delaware are making this transition at one of the most unique times in the history of athletics,” said Missouri State athletic director Patrick Ransdell, referring to the Blue Hens, who are likewise moving up to the FBS and Conference USA this season.