College football programs prepare for 2026 season openers

The 2026 college football season approaches with several major programs preparing for their openers.

Michigan enters its first season under head coach Kyle Whittingham, starting with a home game against Western Michigan on September 5. Whittingham has expressed a desire to establish a culture of discipline and physicality, aiming for a Big Ten Championship despite a challenging schedule that includes matchups against Oklahoma and Minnesota.

Nebraska is set to host Ohio at Memorial Stadium for its season opener. The Huskers, led by head coach Matt Rhule in his fourth season, feature a roster bolstered by 16 transfers. Much attention is focused on transfer quarterback Anthony Colandrea, the former Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year, who will lead an offense featuring significant veteran experience and new talent.

Michigan State begins the Pat Fitzgerald era with a home game against Toledo on September 4. The Spartans' matchup at Spartan Stadium marks the start of the program's 130th season of football.