James Madison University announced on Mar. 13 its complete football schedule for the 2026 season, featuring a total of 12 games—six at home and six on the road. The schedule includes three consecutive Thursday night games in late October and early November.
The release of the full schedule is significant for fans and supporters as it outlines key matchups, rivalries, and travel plans for the upcoming season. It also provides information about ticket renewals and broadcast details.
JMU will open its season at home against Liberty on Sept. 5 in what will be the 20th meeting between the two teams, with JMU leading the series. The following week, Wagner visits Harrisonburg for their first-ever matchup. On Sept. 19, JMU travels to California to face San Diego State in another inaugural meeting.
Conference play begins on Sept. 26 with an away game against Old Dominion as part of the TowneBank Royal Rivalry Challenge. Other notable home games include Marshall (Oct. 3), Georgia State (Oct. 17), Troy (Oct. 29), and Coastal Carolina (Nov. 28). Road trips feature contests against Georgia Southern, Appalachian State, Southern Miss, and UConn.
The Dukes will play continuously for eleven weeks before a bye week on Nov. 21, then close out their regular season at home against Coastal Carolina. Winners of each division will compete in the Sun Belt Football Championship on Dec. 4, followed by postseason bowl selections and College Football Playoff announcements on Dec. 6.
Season ticket renewals are currently underway until May 15, with additional information available through the JMU Athletics Ticket Office or by phone. Game times and television coverage for select matchups will be announced by ESPN later in May.
