FARGO, N.D. - North Dakota State led the nation with eight players named to the Sports Illustrated FCS Football Central All-America Team announced Monday, Dec. 15, on SI.com.

NDSU's four first-team honorees were quarterback Cole Payton, wide receiver Bryce Lance, center Trent Fraley and kicker Eli Ozick.

Bison right guard Griffin Empey and defensive tackle Keenan Wilson were named to the second team, and running back Barika Kpeenu and linebacker Logan Kopp were named third team.

North Dakota State finished the season 12-1 overall and won its 12th Missouri Valley Football Conference championship with an 8-0 record in league play.