LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. – The Lincoln University (Pa.) football team will take the national stage Saturday, Sept. 12, when the Lions face Mississippi Valley State University in the 2026 Chicago Football Classic at historic Soldier Field.

Kickoff between the Lions and Delta Devils is scheduled for 3 p.m. Eastern/2 p.m. Central.

The matchup brings together two proud Historically Black Colleges and Universities for an afternoon celebrating HBCU athletics, education, culture and community. Lincoln will represent the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) against a Mississippi Valley State program that competes in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

Lincoln enters the contest following a competitive 21-13 setback against West Chester in its season opener. The Lions now turn their attention to an opportunity to earn their first victory of the season on one of football's most recognizable stages.

Saturday's game is one of three classics featured on Lincoln's 2026 schedule. The Lions will also compete in the Frederick Douglass Classic against Virginia State on Oct. 3 in Rochester, New York, before facing Virginia Union at Lincoln Financial Field on Oct. 30.

The Chicago Football Classic extends beyond the action on the field. Since its founding in 1997, the organization has used the event to promote HBCUs and provide scholarship opportunities for students throughout the Chicago area.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early and participate in the day's activities. Tailgating begins at 11 a.m. Central in the South Parking Lot, followed by the High School Battle of the Bands at noon on the Grand Lawn. A pregame celebration hosted by Sean Mac begins at 1 p.m. inside Soldier Field.

Game-Day Information

• Matchup: Lincoln University (Pa.) vs. Mississippi Valley State
• Event: 2026 Chicago Football Classic
• Date: Saturday, Sept. 12
• Kickoff: 3 p.m. Eastern/2 p.m. Central
• Venue: Soldier Field
• Address: 1410 Special Olympics Drive, Chicago, IL 60605
• Tailgating: 11 a.m. Central, South Parking Lot
• Battle of the Bands: Noon Central, Grand Lawn
• Pregame Celebration: 1 p.m. Central, Soldier Field
• Live Coverage: Live statistics will be available through Mississippi Valley State Athletics

Tickets remain available through Ticketmaster. Fans planning to attend should review Soldier Field's bag policy, prohibited-items list and security procedures before arriving. Event-day parking may also be purchased in advance through Soldier Field Parking.

Following the Chicago Football Classic, Lincoln will open CIAA play Saturday, Sept. 19, when the Lions travel to Raleigh, North Carolina, to face Shaw University at 1 p.m.

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