
Maine Black Bears Pin Hopes on Veteran Offensive Line for Breakout Season
The University of Maine’s football program is banking on a seasoned offensive line to reverse a 6-6 record and achieve its first winning campaign since 2021.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Jordan Stevens across Football.

The University of Maine’s football program is banking on a seasoned offensive line to reverse a 6-6 record and achieve its first winning campaign since 2021.

The University of Maine football team will kick off its 2026 campaign on Thursday, August 27, when it travels to face Towson in the first Colonial Athletic Association matchup of the season. The game will be streamed live on FloCollege and FloSports Channel on Prime Video, while listeners can tune in on 92.9 FM The Ticket in Bangor, 100.5 FM and 1310 AM in Portland for the radio broadcast. Head coach Jordan Stevens, who took the helm in 2021, will be making his inaugural CAA start, a milestone that comes after a 6‑6 finish in 2025 that featured a six‑game winning streak following an early setback. Maine’s defense, which topped the CAA last year by limiting opponents to just 325.1 yards per game and 37 touchdowns, returns most of its key contributors and will be a cornerstone of the team's identity. On offense, the Black Bears bring back four of the five starters along the line, including All‑CAA selection Anthony Iliano, providing continuity for a unit that aims to build on its strong ground game. Redshirt sophomore Eddie Buehler is slated to start at quarterback for the first time in two seasons, giving the team a fresh arm to complement a rushing attack led by Rashawn Marshall, who amassed 831 all‑purpose yards and five touchdowns in 2025. The matchup also marks the first CAA meeting for Stevens and the first visit to Towson since 2018, when Maine secured a 35‑28 victory, adding a narrative of redemption to the upcoming contest. Fans can expect a lively atmosphere as the Black Bears look to translate their defensive dominance and balanced offense into a season‑opening win.

The Black Bears wrapped up their scrimmage season with intense competition at quarterback, while defensive coordinator Umberto Di Meo highlighted the squad's physical growth. With the season opener looming, the coaching staff is fine‑tuning strategies before the August 27 road test.

The Lancers open against Colerain on August 21, seeking to extend a five‑game winning streak while integrating a young roster into a demanding schedule.

The University of Maine’s football program has resumed spring practices, highlighted by the return of injured running back Nick Laughlin, who is eager to contribute after a lengthy rehabilitation.
Maine’s football team opens preseason camp, ranked seventh in the CAA, aiming for the championship and the Brice‑Cowell Musket.

The league will stream a series of sessions featuring all 13 head coaches, two student‑athletes per team, and Commissioner Joe D’Antonio, with preseason team announcements and on‑demand clips.

Coach Jordan Stevens reflects on recent progress, the upcoming road-heavy slate, and the competition among five signal‑callers as the University of Maine and neighboring colleges gear up for the new season.

The league will host a two‑day virtual Media Day featuring all 13 head coaches, two student‑athletes per team, and commissioner Joe D'Antonio, with announcements, press conference clips and a spotlight on Campbell's session.

The 2026 college football season began with a Media Day that unveiled preseason honors, predictions and the first round of interviews with program representatives.

The Cardinals are optimistic about the upcoming campaign, citing improved chemistry, upgraded facilities, and scholarship‑bearing prospects.

On September 19, 2026, Boston College will welcome Maine to Alumni Stadium in a game that experts expect to end in a three‑touchdown victory for the Eagles.

Former Maine coach Jack Cosgrove, a three‑time conference champion and current Colby College leader, will be celebrated for his transformative impact on University of Maine football.

The University of Maine will induct legendary coach Jack Cosgrove into its Ring of Honor in 2026, recognizing his 129 victories, academic achievements, and lasting influence on student‑athletes.