Kansas State University has released the game times for the first three weeks of the 2026 football season, setting the stage for a busy early schedule that blends home comforts with road challenges. The Wildcats will open at Bill Snyder Family Stadium on September 5 at 6 p.m. against Nicholls, a program that finished 4‑8 a year ago.
Season Opener Set for September
The following weekend brings a quick turnaround as the team travels to Pullman to meet Washington State at 11 a.m. on September 12. A week later, the Wildcats head to New Orleans to take on Tulane, a squad that posted an 11‑3 record and earned a College Football Playoff berth last season. Both contests are scheduled for 11 a.m. kickoffs, a timing choice that reflects the early‑season emphasis on television windows.
Beyond the opening trio, the schedule notes a return trip to Cincinnati on September 26 to begin Big 12 play, while a future road test at Washington State is penciled in for 2029. The Wildcats will also make a stop in Houston to face the University of Houston later in the season, adding another layer of regional rivalry.
The coaching staff will be under the spotlight as well. Collin Klein, a former quarterback turned assistant, is listed among the personnel, alongside Jimmy Rogers, who recently transitioned from a head‑coaching role at Iowa State. Kirby Moore, Jon Sumrall and Will Hall round out a group that brings a mix of playing experience and strategic acumen to the program.
Historical context adds intrigue: Kansas State previously beat Tulane in New Orleans in 2024 after dropping a 2022 matchup in Manhattan, a reminder that early‑season results can set the tone for the months ahead. Fans can expect a blend of tradition and new storylines as the Wildcats navigate a demanding non‑conference slate before conference play ramps up.