Minnesota Golden Gophers host Eastern Illinois in season opener

The University of Minnesota football program begins its 143rd season on Thursday, September 3, 2026, hosting the Eastern Illinois Panthers at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. CT kickoff and will be broadcast on Peacock.

Minnesota enters the matchup under head coach P. J. Fleck, who is entering his 10th season with the program. The Golden Gophers hold a strong historical record in season openers, winning 99 of 142 games. Junior quarterback Drake Lindsey is expected to lead the offense following a season where he recorded 2,382 passing yards and 18 touchdowns.

Eastern Illinois enters the contest following a 3-9 overall record from their previous season. The matchup marks a Week 1 college football contest between the Big Ten representative and the Big South-OVC team.