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Mizzou Tigers Kick Off 2026 Season vs. UAPB
4 Sep
Summary
- Missouri football begins its 2026 season on Thursday, September 3rd.
- The Tigers aim to extend their streak of season-opening wins under Coach Drinkwitz.
- Key players like Austin Simmons and Donovan Olugbode debut amidst injuries.

The No. 25 Missouri football team is set to commence its 2026 season on Thursday, September 3rd, facing Arkansas-Pine Bluff at 7 p.m. CT. This marks the first game since the extensive $250 million renovations to Tiger Stadium were completed.
Coach Eli Drinkwitz's debut season in 2020 saw the start of a streak of winning season openers, which the Tigers will strive to maintain against the Golden Lions. This season introduces new talent, including Ole Miss transfer quarterback Austin Simmons and new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey.
Several key Tigers are expected to make an impact, such as kicker Blake Craig, sophomore wideout Donovan Olugbode, transfer linebacker Robert Woodyard, and senior running back Jamal Roberts. The team will, however, be without All-American running back Ahmad Hardy and All-SEC left tackle Cayden Green due to injuries. Hardy is recovering from a gunshot wound sustained in May, while Green has an undisclosed leg injury.
The game will be broadcast on SEC Network and can be heard on the Tiger Radio Network. This matchup represents the first-ever meeting between Missouri and Arkansas-Pine Bluff.