The Big Ten Conference has unveiled the kickoff times and television partners for a slate of 2026 matchups that will shape the Oregon Ducks’ upcoming season. From the opening weekend in Eugene to late‑November road tests, the schedule blends traditional rivalries with fresh regional challenges.
Opening week showdown
The Ducks open their campaign on Saturday, September 5, when they host Boise State in Autzen Stadium. The game is slated for a 12:30 p.m. Pacific start and will be carried by CBS, giving the program a national audience right out of the gate.
A week later, Oregon travels to Stillwater, Oklahoma, for a 11:00 a.m. Central kickoff that will air on ESPN. The contest against the Cowboys represents an early test against a team known for its high‑octane offense and could set the tone for the Ducks’ non‑conference slate.
The first home game of the season will be a Friday night showdown against Portland State on September 18, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Pacific on the Big Ten Network. The prime‑time slot underscores the conference’s willingness to showcase non‑conference opponents in a marquee setting.
Homecoming and later road tests
The homecoming contest against Northwestern on October 31 will be played in Eugene, but the exact start time has yet to be finalized. What is certain is that the game will conclude before 5 p.m. Pacific, with the network to be announced in the coming weeks.
Later in the year, the Ducks will make a road appearance at Michigan State on November 20, with an 8:00 p.m. Eastern kickoff that will be carried by FOX. The partnership with FOX highlights the conference’s expanding media reach and the growing prominence of evening college‑football broadcasts.
Strategic shifts and cancellations
In a separate development, Oregon and Baylor have mutually called off their scheduled home‑and‑home series for the 2027 and 2028 seasons. At the same time, the Ducks have added a home game against Coastal Carolina on September 11, 2027, expanding their non‑conference portfolio and providing another opportunity for regional exposure.
Beyond the individual results, the announcements reflect a broader strategy by the Big Ten to balance traditional rivalries with new regional fixtures. For Oregon, the schedule offers a mix of familiar Pac‑12‑era opponents and fresh challenges that could influence recruiting, fan engagement, and the team’s national standing.