Preseason Predictions Set the Stage
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association has released its 2026 football predicted order of finish, designating Virginia Union University as the preseason favorite. The poll reflects the conference’s belief that the Richmond‑based program has the strongest returning roster and recruiting class heading into the new season.
The announcement follows a historic 2025 campaign in which Johnson C. Smith University captured its first CIAA Football Championship in 55 years, a breakthrough that has raised optimism across the league and its fan base.
Championship Weekend Gets Bigger
Alongside the poll, the CIAA unveiled an expanded Championship Weekend that will feature the four top programs in a single‑day showcase. The new format promises more high‑stakes matchups and a larger stage for the conference’s elite teams.
To celebrate the revamped event, the association is offering a special flash sale for the 2026 Championship Weekend Bundle at a price of $19.12, giving fans an affordable way to experience the entire weekend of games.
The 2026 football season is slated to begin in late August, with the championship game scheduled for November 14. This compressed timeline sets the stage for an intense and competitive year across the CIAA.