Jackson State makes significant change in football schedule

Story by

Randall Barnes, ClutchPoints

Tue, Apr 7, 2026 ·

1 min read

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Jackson State is making a major change to its schedule ahead of football season. The Tigers’ three home games in September will now be played in the evening at 6 PM CST / 7 PM EST. Per a statement by the institution, Jackson State’s home opener against SIAC opponent Edward Waters University in the unclear: Hope Labor Day Classic their matchup with SIAC opponent Tuskegee University in the W.C. Gordon Classic, and their rivalry game against Southern University will all be moved to the evening.

This is a change from the 2025 schedule, in which the September home games started in the early afternoon. The move certainly makes for a better environment for Jackson State fans, as the temperatures will likely be cooler and more manageable in the evenings. Jackson State is known for its fervent fan base, as they boast the top FCS attendance in the nation. Although the September games have moved to a later time, their highly anticipated matchup with Florida A&M, as well as their in-state matchup with Mississippi Valley State—both of which are home games—will have an early 2 PM CST kickoff.

This adds a different dimension to a stacked schedule of home games this season as Jackson State looks to once again contend in the SWAC East, reclaim its title as SWAC champions, and advance to the Celebration Bowl. Last year, the Tigers were ultimately beaten in the SWAC Championship by Prairie View A&M University.

Jackson State starts the 2026 campaign with a matchup against traditional rival Tennessee State in the John Merritt Classic