A New Chapter for the Chippewas
The Chippewas are gearing up for a pivotal 2026 campaign as preseason training camp opens its doors on Wednesday, August 5 at Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Under the bright lights of Kramer/Deromedi Field, the team will begin a grueling 21‑day stretch that sets the tone for the months ahead.
Fans can mark their calendars for two public scrimmages scheduled for August 21 and August 29, each kicking off at 5:30 p.m. The final dress rehearsal comes just days before the season opener at New Mexico on September 5, a game that will test the squad’s readiness after a promising 2025 finish.
Returning Talent and Offensive Firepower
Coach Matt Drinkall, who guided the Chippewas to a bowl victory last season, knows the stakes are high. After a 7‑6 record and a fifth‑place finish in the Mid‑American Conference, the program aims to climb the league ladder and extend its postseason streak.
The offense returns 13 starters, including a formidable line anchored by Martin Koivisto, Brady Ploucha, Jacob Russell, Dasan Smith, John Iannuzzi and Matthew Nehf. At the skill positions, running back Brock Townsend and wideout Langston Lewis bring proven production, having combined for 12 touchdowns last year.
Quarterbacks Angel Flores, Jadyn Glasser and Marcus Beamon saw extensive action a year ago, with Flores leading the ground game for 527 rushing yards and Townsend contributing 418. Lewis topped the receiving corps with 43 catches for 596 yards and three scores, giving the Chippewas a balanced attack heading into the new season.
Defensive Outlook and Schedule
Defensively, the team retains key pieces such as cornerback Jaion Jackson, who led the squad with 48 tackles, along with linemen Korver Demma and Quavion Bird. Additional experience comes from JJ Douglas, Xavier White and Victor Earl, who will help shore up a unit looking to improve on last year’s numbers.
The academic calendar adds another layer of timing, as fall classes at Central Michigan begin on Monday, August 31, just after the camp concludes. Meanwhile, the 2026 football schedule was unveiled in March, giving fans a full view of conference battles and non‑conference matchups.