INSTITUTE – West Virginia State University head football coach John Pennington has announced the Yellow Jackets 2026 schedule, which will feature six games played on Lakin-Ray Field at Dickerson Stadium, including the season opener Aug. 29 against Chowan. 

"We are excited about this year's team and schedule!" Pennington said. "We have a lot of veterans with experience, a schedule with some exciting games, and most importantly, six home games. We haven't had six home games in three years, so having our family, friends, alumni, and fans supporting us over the 2026 football season will make a huge difference. Mark your calendars now and come out and support our hard-working student-athletes. Go State!"

Following their week 1 matchup with the Hawks, WVSU will hit the road for a Division I matchup against Robert Morris on Sept. 5. The next week, the Yellow Jackets will open Mountain East Conference play at home against West Virginia Wesleyan. 

WVSU's homecoming is set for Oct. 3, with WVSU football hosting West Liberty in a 1:30 p.m. kickoff. The Yellow Jackets will then stay at home the next week, hosting Concord. 

Oct. 24 will feature a brand new team coming to Institute in Monroe University (NY). The Express are beginning their transition into NCAA Division II athletics. This will be the first-ever meeting between the Yellow Jackets and Express.

The home finale is scheduled for Nov. 7 against Frostburg State, with kickoff set for 12 p.m. The regular season will conclude the next week with the annual University of Charleston game, set for 12 p.m. Nov. 14 in Charleston. Listed start times are subject to change.