A season of promise
UC Davis will begin its 2026 football training camp on July 30, launching a stretch of 25 practices that will culminate in the season opener on August 29 against Portland State. The extended camp reflects the program’s intent to fine‑tune tactics and build chemistry before a schedule that promises several marquee matchups.
The Aggies’ 2026 slate is among the most demanding in the Big Sky, featuring road trips to face SMU, Montana, Eastern Washington and a host of other conference powerhouses. Each opponent brings a distinct style of play, from the high‑powered offense of SMU to the rugged defense of Montana, setting the stage for a rigorous test of depth and resilience.
UC Davis enters the new campaign riding the momentum of a 2025 season that ended with a 9‑4 overall record and a trip to the FCS Quarterfinals. That success was anchored by a series of standout performances that earned preseason recognition for several key players.
Among the honorees are wide receiver Samuel Gbatu Jr., linebacker Porter Connors and defensive back Rex Connors, all named to the 2026 Preseason All‑American team. Gbatu Jr. also earned a spot on the watch list for the Walter Payton Award, underscoring his status as one of the nation’s most dynamic playmakers.
Returning talent will be led by Gbatu Jr. and running back Jordan Fisher, who together accounted for the bulk of the Aggies’ production on offense in 2025. On the defensive side, linebacker Jackson Sievers emerges as the team’s top tackler from the previous season, providing a anchor for a unit looking to build on its recent gains.
Head coach Tim Plough, who has guided the program for several years, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming season, emphasizing that the team’s focus remains on cultivating joy and community pride. "We’re excited about the direction we’re heading," Plough said at the Big Sky Football Kickoff Weekend, where he was joined by Gbatu Jr. and fellow standout Drew Cofield.
The Aggies’ representation at the kickoff event highlighted the broader excitement within the conference, as stakeholders from across the region gathered to preview the upcoming battles. With a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, UC Davis aims to translate its off‑field optimism into on‑field success.