Bison return to Nebraska in adding Lincoln defensive back

FARGO — The state of Nebraska has always been a popular place for North Dakota State football. The Bison are hoping that trend continues in the Class of 2025.

Lincoln East defensive back Mikhale Ford gave the Bison his verbal commitment Monday, June 24, after his official visit this week.

“Every single coach showed me so much love, it was too much of an opportunity to pass up. The amount of love was incredible. It feels like home.” Ford said.

Ford is a 6-foot-1, 170-pound cornerback and safety that racked up 46 tackles, two interceptions and four pass breakups at Lincoln East High School last season.

NDSU was the first to offer Ford a Division I scholarship at the end of February. Northern Iowa, South Dakota, Illinois State and North Dakota all followed with offers.

Lincoln East High School has a couple of special ties to NDSU. The builder of the Division I dynasty, Craig Bohl is an alum of Lincoln East, as is Bison basketball great Sam Griesel.

Ford’s commitment marks the third straight year that NDSU has landed a player out of the state of Nebraska. Redshirt freshman running back

CharMar “Marty” Brown

is from Omaha’s Creighton Prep, while incoming freshman

wide receiver Jackson Williams

hails from Millard West in Omaha.

“It’s nice to know I’ve got a few guys from Nebraska here,” Ford said. “I’ve got close with Marty Brown, and it’s cool to bring the culture up to Fargo.”

Ford’s speed is another factor that made him attractive to college recruiters. A tremendous track athlete, his speed has made him a rising defensive back.

The Nebraska High School Football Prospect Twitter account reported on Ford: “He stood out all season, technique in coverage is at a high level. He has elite speed and should weigh close to 175 in camps. He will increase tackles and is a clear talent.”

Ford says he thinks he can fit in seamlessly with the Bison defense.

“NDSU has a defense where we can really move around,” Ford said. “You might see me at safety, nickel, corner. Wherever it is, I’m involved and making a play and helping my team succeed.”

Ford’s commitment is the fourth defensive back for the Bison in the Class of 2025, joining Westhope (N.D.)’s Walker Braaten, Elvin Ampofo from Eaglecrest, Colorado, and Kendrick Carter from Dallas. NDSU now has seven defensive players in this current class.

“I’m excited to be a part of something special and can’t wait to get to work,” Ford said.

Dom Izzo is the Sports Director at WDAY-TV. He began working for WDAY in 2006 as the weekend sports anchor and was promoted to Sports Director in 2010.