Southern Illinois University announced on Mar. 18 the release of its 2026 football schedule, which includes an opening game at Samford on Thursday, Sept. 3 and a total of 11 games for the season.
The announcement is significant for fans and supporters as it outlines key matchups and events for the upcoming season, including three nonconference games and several home events in Carbondale, Illinois. The Salukis will host Southeast Missouri State (SEMO) in their home opener on Saturday, Sept. 12 during Family Weekend at Saluki Stadium. The only nonconference home game will be followed by a trip to play Illinois from the Big Ten Conference on Sept. 19.
Missouri Valley Football Conference play begins for Southern Illinois one week later at Murray State on Sept. 26, marking consecutive seasons with a visit to Murray, Kentucky for a conference matchup. Youngstown State, led by Beau Brungard—the winner of the 2025 Walter Payton Award—will visit Carbondale on Oct. 3. Additional games before the team’s bye week include trips to South Dakota and home contests against Illinois State during Homecoming Weekend and Northern Iowa.
The regular season concludes with games against Indiana State, South Dakota State at home, and North Dakota away on Nov. 21. Game times are yet to be announced.
Fans eager to see the team before fall can attend free spring events in April at various locations: Van Metre Field in Du Quoin (April 3), Wildcat Stadium in Marion (April 10), and the official Spring Game at Saluki Stadium (April 17). The Southern Illinois Salukis Men’s Football program has competed at the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision level and claimed a national title in 1983, as per the official website. The team hosts its home games in Carbondale, Illinois according to the official website.
The Saluki—a dog breed known for speed, grace, and endurance—serves as both mascot and symbol for Southern Illinois University athletics including men’s football according to the official website. The program is closely linked to Southern Illinois University itself as noted by the university.
Looking ahead, fans can follow updates about schedules or team news through social media channels or by downloading the “Salukis” mobile app.
