A Road‑Heavy Start
Central College’s football program has released its 2026 slate, which opens with three consecutive non‑conference road games. The Dutch will first travel to St. Peter, Minnesota, to face Gustavus Adolphus College, then head to St. Paul to meet the University of Northwestern – St. Paul, and finally make a rare southern trip to Jackson, Mississippi, where they will take on Belhaven University on September 19.
The matchup with Gustavus Adolphus marks a continuation of a historic rivalry; the Dutch hold a 3‑1 edge over the Gusties, having last met in a 2019 contest where they posted a 42‑13 victory in Pella. That win underscores the team’s ability to perform well against familiar opponents.
Northwestern will provide another test, though Central has already proven dominant, holding a 2‑0 record against the Eagles. The upcoming game will be played on the Northwestern campus, adding another layer of strategy for the Dutch coaching staff.
The September 19 contest in Jackson will be only the fourth time Central has played in that region of the country, a fact that excites both players and fans. The move south also ties into a broader schedule that includes a return to the Midwest for conference play.
After the non‑conference stretch, the Dutch will open their American Rivers Conference schedule at home on October 3 against the University of Dubuque, a game that coincides with Homecoming celebrations. Additional home fixtures include contests against Buena Vista University on October 24 and Wartburg College on November 7.
Conference road trips are set for Coe College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Loras College and Simpson College, giving the Dutch a balanced mix of challenges as they aim to contend for the league title.