Tim Polasek is set to stay at North Dakota State University. After being mentioned as a potential candidate for the head coaching position at Oregon State, the Bison football coach has finalized a new long-term contract. According to ESPN”s Pete Thamel, Polasek has agreed in principle to a seven-year deal that will extend through the 2033 season.
The contract includes a notable salary increase, additional funding for staff, and enhanced resources for the football program. “After several productive conversations with Coach Polasek, we have affirmed our commitment to both him and the long-term success of NDSU football. Tim has agreed in principle to a contract extension and will remain head coach of the Bison,” stated NDSU athletic director Matt Larsen.
Larsen expressed satisfaction with Polasek”s contributions to the football program over his twelve seasons, particularly highlighting his impact in the last two years as head coach. “I am happy he and Jill are staying home at NDSU as we focus our energy on the upcoming FCS playoffs,” he added.
Polasek, who took over as head coach in December 2023, had initially signed a five-year contract worth a total of $1.6 million. In 2024, he earned approximately $500,000, a figure he is likely to match this year. His name has been linked to coaching vacancies at Oregon State and Colorado State, which is transitioning to the Pac-12 next season.
Details regarding the specifics of Polasek”s new contract, including his base salary and terms for a buyout, have not been disclosed. Under his leadership, the Bison have achieved an impressive record of 26 wins and 2 losses over two seasons, securing an FCS national championship last year and entering the current FCS playoffs with a perfect 12-0 record as the top seed.
Recently, journalist John Canzano reported that Polasek was a leading candidate for the Oregon State job. Following a dominating 62-7 victory against St. Thomas at the Fargodome, Polasek acknowledged the interest from other programs but emphasized his focus on NDSU. “My agent is in contact with a lot of people right now. As we keep winning, certain opportunities could pop up,” he stated. “I”m just really focused on the Bison right now and looking forward to a really good lunch with Matt Larsen on Monday. Outside of that, I have no comment.”
This marks Polasek”s third tenure at NDSU. A graduate assistant under former coach Craig Bohl in 2006, he has held various coaching roles, including running backs coach and offensive coordinator, before becoming the head coach. A native of Wisconsin, Polasek played quarterback at Concordia (Wis.) and previously spent time at Wisconsin-Stevens Point before joining NDSU.
