New Mexico State University has released its 2026 football slate, marking the third year under head coach Tony Sanchez. The schedule is packed with road trips, marquee matchups and a handful of afternoon contests that promise to test the Aggies’ depth.
Opening Week Thrills
The season kicks off on August 29 with a trip to Tallahassee, where the Aggies will meet Florida State at 5 p.m. MT. The game, broadcast nationally, offers an early test against a traditional powerhouse.
A week later, on September 5, New Mexico State travels to Erie, Pennsylvania, to face Mercyhurst for the first time in football, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. MT. The following Saturday, the Aggies head to Honolulu for a 10:30 p.m. MT showdown at Hawaii, adding a West Coast flavor to the early stretch.
September 26 brings the Rio Grande Rivalry, a noon MT contest against in‑state rival New Mexico that will be televised nationally, underscoring the cultural significance of the matchup.
The middle of the season features a grueling stretch of four consecutive mid‑week games, beginning with a home clash against Western Kentucky on October 1 at 6 p.m. MT, followed by road tests at Florida International, Sam Houston State, and Jacksonville State, each scheduled for early evening or afternoon slots.
Later in November, the Aggies will host Liberty, travel to Missouri State, face Delaware, and close the regular season against Middle Tennessee on November 28 at noon MT, rounding out a schedule that blends home comforts with extensive roadwork.
Coach Sanchez emphasized that the demanding calendar is designed to sharpen the team for postseason play, and fans can expect a season filled with travel, rivalry and opportunities to prove the program’s progress.