Mark your calendars, Lions fans! Missouri Southern State University has officially unveiled its 2026 football schedule, setting the stage for another exciting season of MIAA action. The Lions are slated for an 11-game campaign, featuring five crucial home contests at the roar-friendly Fred G. Hughes Stadium in Joplin.
The journey begins on the road as MSSU kicks off its season against Midwestern State University in Texas on August 29th. The team will then charge home for a highly-anticipated home opener on September 5th, welcoming Upper Iowa University to town and giving the home crowd their first look at the squad.
Conference play heats up in mid-September, with the Lions diving into their demanding nine-game MIAA schedule. The road to conference glory is always a tough grind, and key home matchups against rivals like the University of Central Missouri (Sept. 26), Pittsburg State University (Oct. 31), and the University of Central Oklahoma (Nov. 7) will be pivotal moments on the schedule. A notable road test at powerhouse Northwest Missouri State University on September 19th will be an early benchmark for the team.
Beyond the fall slate, the Lions are giving supporters a sneak peek this spring. The annual Spring Game is set for this Friday at 5 p.m. at Fred G. Hughes Stadium—a perfect, free-admission opportunity to see the team's new formations and emerging talent. The weekend also features the fourth annual MSSU Football Alumni and Friends Golf Tournament, fostering community and tradition.
The official prelude to the 2026 season will be the MIAA Football Media Day on July 27th in Topeka, Kansas, where coaches and players from all ten conference schools will set the tone for the upcoming battle. Get ready to gear up and support the Lions every step of the way!