The Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) announced its 2026 football preseason poll on July 24, revealing that the Northern Michigan Wildcats have been slotted sixth among the conference’s ten teams. The poll, which reflects the opinions of head coaches across the league, sets the stage for a competitive season ahead.
A New Era Under Coach Janus
Northern Michigan will be led by first‑year head coach Matt Janus, who took over the program after a successful stint as an assistant at a neighboring university. Janus inherits a squad that closed the 2025 campaign with back‑to‑back victories, including a dramatic 47‑45 four‑overtime win over Davenport and a decisive 45‑11 triumph over Wayne State.
The Wildcats open their 2026 schedule on August 27 with a road game against Minnesota State Moorhead. Their home opener follows on September 5, when they host Tiffin at the Superior Dome, a venue that has become a focal point for community support.
Key Returners and Expectations
Running back Noah Dobert, a D2CCA Second Team All‑American and record‑setting rusher from the 2025 season, will return as one of the team’s primary offensive weapons. His performance last year helped the Wildcats secure two of their final three games, and coaches expect his experience to provide a steadying influence on a young roster.
Beyond the on‑field action, the team’s placement sixth in the preseason poll has sparked optimism among players and fans alike. With a blend of seasoned leadership from Coach Janus and emerging talent like Dobert, Northern Michigan hopes to translate early‑season momentum into a deeper playoff run than the previous year.