The University of Idaho announced its complete 2026 football schedule this week, cementing a slate that blends regional exposure with national visibility.
Head coach Thomas Ford Jr. highlighted the new broadcast agreement, noting that 20 of the Vandals’ 24 regular‑season contests will appear on television or streaming platforms, a marked increase from previous years.
Broadcast partners and game times
The season opener against Cal Poly will be carried live nationwide on ESPN, while the non‑conference road test at Lamar in Beaumont, Texas, is set for a 1:00 PM PT kickoff on September 19. That game, along with the home matchup against Abilene Christian, will be shown on SWX, the regional sports network that serves the Pacific Northwest.
In total, nine Vandals games are slated for regional or national broadcasts, including two on ESPN, one on ESPNU, five on SWX and a single appearance on Scripps Sports. The schedule also features additional contests that will be streamed through the network’s digital platforms.
Fall camp is scheduled to begin on July 28, giving the team a head start on preparation for the upcoming campaign. With the broadcast lineup locked in, the Vandals look to translate increased exposure into on‑field success.