I have a problem with UNDs mediocrity. I just don't blame it on NDSU. At least not directly.
Its like a bunch of nerds/overweight guys (division 2) sitting at a table when all of a sudden one guy (NDSU) declares, "Im gonna lose weight and talk to hot chicks." While the other kids (UND and USD) laugh, ridicule, and say "yeah right whatever. Good luck (rolls eyes)".
They are dating the cheerleader. UND is on the treadmill.
UND inability to lead ("its ok we have hockey") has put themselves in this situation.
These things start to change the culture of an institution. NDSU football won back to back FCS championships with two different coaches. NDSU men's basketball went to back to back NCAA tournament appearances with two different coaches.
These things don't happen overnight. Its been over a decade in the making.
I don't blame NDSU for wanting to better themselves and then blame that for why I can't date a cheerleader.
Having a strong NDSU pushes UND to do better.
How UND decides to react is up to it fans and administration. (Where's the Betty's video board? - this is a microcosm of the differences).