MSSU announces 2026 football schedule, spring game

Missouri Southern State University has announced its 2026 football schedule. The Lions will compete in 11 games this upcoming season, including five home games at Fred G. Hughes Stadium.

MSSU opens its 2026 season Aug. 29 at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas. The Lions then return to Joplin to host their home opener against Upper Iowa University on Sept. 5.

Southern begins its nine-game MIAA schedule Sept. 19.

Homecoming will be Oct. 10; senior day is Nov. 7.

The 2026 MIAA season kicks off with the annual football media day Monday, July 27, at Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas. Head coaches and student-athletes from all 10 MIAA football member institutions will travel to Topeka to participate in 15-minute press conferences, which will be broadcast live on The MIAA Network.

MSSU also will host its 2026 spring game at 5 p.m. Friday at Fred G. Hughes Stadium. Admission to the game is free. The Lions will host their fourth annual MSSU Football Alumni and Friends Golf Tournament on Saturday.

2026 schedule

• Aug. 29: At Midwestern State.

• Sept. 5: Home against Upper Iowa.

• Sept. 12: Bye.

• Sept. 19: At Northwest Missouri State University.

• Sept. 26: Home against University of Central Missouri.

• Oct. 3: At Fort Hays State University.

• Oct. 10: Home against Emporia State University.

• Oct. 17: At University of Nebraska-Kearney.

• Oct. 24: At Missouri Western State University.

• Oct. 31: Home against Pittsburg State University.

• Nov. 7: Home against the University of Central Oklahoma.

• Nov. 14: At Washburn University.