Jamil Ferrer | March 19, 2026
After coming off of a positive 7-6 record led by new Head Coach Willie Simmons, the Panthers have released their 2026 season schedule.
Last season the team accomplished a great amount behind their recently acquired head coach; examples being, having their first winning season since 2018, making a bowl appearance since 2019, and having a pretty strong offense that averaged about 28.5 points per game.
Coach Simmons and the Panthers staff are slowly but surely turning the program around one practice at a time, preparing for the upcoming season, which may be an even tougher schedule than the previous year.
Here’s FIU’s 2026 Football Schedule.
Non-Conference Play
Their season starts with a high bar to reach as they begin the season on the road against the University of South Florida, Sept. 5th. It’s a tough road opener against a solid ACC opponent and tests them almost immediately.
Following up, they face the University of Buffalo on Sept. 12th in a first ever matchup against each other. It’s a winnable home game that brings momentum for the rest of the season.
Next, they head to Boca Raton to face Florida Atlantic University on Sept. 19th. This one could really go either way as Florida Atlantic has home advantage.
After that, they head back home to host Long Island University on Sept. 26 in a must win game against a steady FCS opponent.
Conference USA Play
Starting games against conference opponents they go against Jacksonville State on Oct. 1st. A much needed win to be eligible for bowl games.
Following up, they face Louisiana Tech at home on Oct. 8. Another must win game that’ll define their post season future.
After that, their last conference game is against Middle Tennessee on Oct. 20th. Closing up conference play with a win against an above average C-USA opponent would help for the playoffs.
Season Closing Games
FIU will start to close out the season away on Oct. 31st against Liberty. Probably one of, if not the hardest game on the schedule. Will be a tough yet much needed grind it out game.
Next, FIU stays home as they face Sam Houston on Nov. 7th. Another tough opponent and a great opportunity to gain momentum for the playoffs.
After, the Panthers will play away against the Delaware Blue Hens on Nov. 14th. An average team that may give FIU a run for their money.
FIU will head to New Mexico to play New Mexico State on Nov 21st. Another conference win opportunity for the Panthers which’ll help their bowl eligibility.
Closing the regular season FIU will go up against Missouri State at home on Nov. 28th. A good chance to end the season positively which’ll transition into playoff gameplay.
As FIU fans have high hopes for Head Coach Willie Simmons the Panthers this upcoming season, be sure to cheer them on for a season that’ll be better than the last.
(Cover Photo via The Miami Herald)
