On Thursday, August 27, 2026, the Eagles will host Ohio Dominican University at 6 p.m. ET in what marks the program's inaugural meeting with the Panthers, a Division II member of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference.
Special Fan Experience
The kickoff will be accompanied by a freshman run across the field and a post‑game fireworks display, adding a festive atmosphere to the opening night.
Head coach Jason Woodman enters his third season with a 13‑win tally over his first two years, the most successful start for any MSU coach in the program's recent history, and the team aims to extend its nine‑game home‑opener winning streak.
Returning standouts such as defensive lineman KJ Hardesty, who earned preseason All‑Pioneer League first‑team honors, and kicker Jordan Price, who finished a perfect 30‑of‑30 on PATs last season, provide continuity and experience.
With departing quarterback Carter Cravens, the starting role will be contested by redshirt senior Bryce Patterson and junior David Parsons, both eager to prove themselves under Woodman's system.
The Eagles also boast a nine‑game streak against non‑Division I opponents since 2013 and will look to build on their 6‑6 record from the previous year, which marked the first back‑to‑back seasons with a .500 or better mark since 2007‑2008.