The Pitt State Gorillas will begin their 2026 preseason camp on Monday, August 3, with the first practice scheduled for 9:15 a.m. at Carnie Smith Stadium. The daily morning sessions will run through the following week, setting the tone for a campaign that last year culminated in a 10‑3 record and a fourth consecutive NCAA Division II playoff berth.
A historic return to the playoffs
Building on that momentum, the Gorillas are eager to translate last season’s success into another deep playoff run. The team finished the previous year with a strong 10‑3 overall record, earning a spot in the Division II national playoffs for the fourth straight year.
Veteran core returns
Head coach Tom Anthony, now in his third year, welcomes back eight returning starters and a handful of All‑MIAA honorees. Senior placekicker Austin Schmitt, who earned Special Teams Player of the Year honors in 2025, headlines a group that also includes wide receiver Kuron Parchmon, who was selected to the first‑team All‑MIAA squad.
Poll predictions and rankings
The Gorillas have been tabbed as the preseason favorite in the 2026 MIAA Coaches Poll and sit at No. 2 in the media poll released on July 27. Such recognition reflects the belief that the team’s blend of experience and talent positions them to contend for the conference title.
Stars to watch
Beyond Schmitt and Parchmon, the roster features additional All‑MIAA selections such as wide receiver Greyson Holbert and tight end Luke Niggemann, both earning third‑team honors, and defensive end Ely Wilcox, who received honorable‑mention recognition. Schmitt also garnered national notice with honorable‑mention All‑America accolades from the Don Hansen Football Committee.
Season opener
The Gorillas will open the 2026 campaign by hosting defending national champion Ferris State on August 27 at 7 p.m. CDT at Carnie Smith Stadium. The matchup promises a high‑stakes start to the season and serves as a showcase for the team’s preparation and ambition.