Lincoln University, PA – March 23, 2026 -  Lincoln University (PA) Football has officially released its 2026 schedule, featuring a competitive slate of CIAA matchups, a national showcase appearance, and key home dates that will define the upcoming season.
"Our 2026 schedule is going to challenge us in every phase," said head coach Frank Turner. "Opening with a solid program like West Chester and then traveling to play Mississippi Valley State in the Chicago Classic sets the tone early. Once we get into conference play, we know the level of competition we'll face week in and week out in the CIAA. We have a solid group of guys returning and we had a good signing class that will provide depth. We are still looking to add some transfers to balance out the roster as we prepare for the season. Overall, I think this schedule will give us a great opportunity to show who we are as a football team."
The Lions will open the season on September 5 at home against West Chester, setting the tone for the year before quickly turning to one of the biggest stages on the schedule.
Chicago Classic
In Week 2, Lincoln will travel to Chicago, Illinois to face Mississippi Valley State on September 12 in the HBCU Chicago Classic at Soldier Field. The appearance marks the program's first time competing in the prestigious event, which celebrates HBCU culture through football, a college fair, and a nationally recognized battle of the bands while serving as a major fundraiser for student scholarships.
Facing a Division I FCS opponent, the Lions will have the opportunity to showcase the program on a national stage in one of the premier HBCU events in the country.
Conference Play
Conference play begins on September 19 with a road matchup at Shaw University before the Lions return home to host Bluefield State on September 26. Lincoln continues CIAA action against Virginia State on October 3, followed by back-to-back road contests at Elizabeth City State (October 10) and Johnson C. Smith (October 17).
Homecoming Spotlight
Homecoming will serve as a historic moment for the university on October 24, as Lincoln celebrates 100 years of Homecoming with a Centennial celebration against Winston-Salem State. The matchup is expected to bring a high-energy atmosphere and stands as a key conference showdown in front of the Lincoln community.
The Lions will close out the regular season with a home game against Virginia Union on October 31 before traveling to Bowie State on November 7.
Lincoln enters the 2026 season with strong momentum, fueled by a promising recruiting class that adds depth and talent across the roster as the program continues to build toward sustained success.
2026 Football Schedule
Sept. 5 – West Chester
Sept. 12 – at Mississippi Valley State (Chicago Classic)
Sept. 19 – at Shaw
Sept. 26 – Bluefield State
Oct. 3 – Virginia State
Oct. 10 – at Elizabeth City State
Oct. 17 – at Johnson C. Smith
Oct. 24 – Winston-Salem State (Homecoming – Centennial Celebration)
Oct. 31 – Virginia Union
Nov. 7 – at Bowie State