The 2026 college football season opens with a marquee matchup as the Florida Gators host the Florida Atlantic Owls at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on the evening of September 5, kicking off a schedule that promises both fresh faces and familiar rivals.
A New Era for the Gators
Jon Sumrall, the first‑year head coach, brings a 43‑12 record from his stints at Troy and Tulane, where he led the Green Wave to an AAC title and a College Football Playoff appearance. His arrival marks a turning point for a program that finished 2025 at 4‑8 and saw former coach Billy Napier dismissed midseason.
Florida will lean on a core that includes running back Jadan Baugh, the first 1,000‑yard rusher for the Gators since 2015, and veteran defenders Myles Graham and Bryce Thornton, both of whom contributed heavily on the previous year’s defense.
Key Players to Watch
The Owls’ offense will be anchored by quarterback Caden Veltkamp, who threw for 3,641 yards, 24 touchdowns and 17 interceptions last season, providing a potent aerial threat that could test the Gators’ secondary.
Broadcast and Stakes
The game will be televised on the SEC Network and streamed on Fubo TV, which is offering a free trial for new subscribers. Commentary will come from analysts Matt Schumaker and Aaron Murray, with Taylor Davis reporting from the sidelines.
Beyond the season opener, Florida’s slate includes contests against Campbell, Auburn, Ole Miss, Missouri, South Carolina, Texas, Georgia in Atlanta, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Vanderbilt and the in‑state rivalry with Florida State, setting a demanding path for Sumrall’s inaugural squad.