2026 Schedule


Eastern Illinois football is right around the corner as the Panthers have announced the game times for their five home games on the 2026 schedule at O'Brien Field.
 
Season ticket renewals and sales will begin on Monday, June 1 through EIUPanthers.com
 
After two road games to open the season at Murray State and Minnesota, EIU will host regional rival Indiana State for the home opener on Saturday, Sept. 12 with a 6 pm kickoff under the lights.
 
Three straight 2 pm home kicks for the Panthers follow in October and November as they host Lindenwood (Oct. 17), Southeast Missouri (Oct. 24) and Western Illinois (Nov. 7) all at 2 pm.
 
The final home game of the 2026 season will be on Nov. 21 with EIU hosting Charleston Southern for a 12 pm kickoff.
 
All home games will be streamed on ESPN+.
 
Home Schedule & Times
Sept. 12 – 6 pm vs. Indiana State
Oct. 17 – 2 pm vs. Lindenwood
Oct. 24 – 2 pm vs. Southeast Missouri  (HC)
Nov. 7 – 2 pm vs. Western Illinois  (FW)
Nov. 21 – 12 pm vs. Charleston Southern