The Central College football team is looking ahead to a wild 2026 season. The schedule? Packed with tough road trips and some can’t-miss home games.
The Dutch open with three straight non-conference games away from home. That run wraps up with a much-anticipated Homecoming matchup. This year’s slate is a blend of old foes and a couple of rare journeys, so there’s plenty for fans to get excited about—even if it’s a little nerve-wracking.
Season Kickoff: Road Warriors
Central will hit the road to start 2026, facing three non-conference teams. The first stop is Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota, on September 5.
These two haven’t squared off since 1995. Central leads the all-time series 3-1, which feels like a good omen, but you never really know with season openers.
Back-to-Back Minnesota Showdowns
The next weekend, the Dutch stick around Minnesota to face the University of Northwestern – St. Paul on September 12. Central’s 2-0 against the Eagles, including a thumping 42-13 win at home back in 2019.
Two games in Minnesota, right out of the gate. That’s a quick test for any team—especially on the road.
Southern Expedition to Mississippi
September 19 brings something different: a trip south to play Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi. Central rarely heads this far south for football.
It’s just the fourth time the Dutch will play in the southern U.S.—the last times were championship games in Alabama (1974, 1988) and a regular season contest in Texas (1986). This one’s a chance to see what they can do outside their usual territory.
Homecoming and Conference Play
After all that travel, the Dutch finally get to play in Pella. The home opener lands on October 3, and it’s Homecoming—so, yeah, there’ll be a buzz.
The University of Dubuque comes to town for the second straight season’s Homecoming game. Fans and players circle this one every year, and it’s always a big deal for the campus and community.
Home Games to Watch
Besides Homecoming, there are two more conference games in Pella:
- Buena Vista University on October 24
- Wartburg College on November 7
Both are important for the Dutch’s conference ambitions. The home crowd will matter—maybe more than usual.
Challenging Road Conference Games
The Dutch face four conference games on the road, and none of them look easy. Here’s where they’re headed:
- Coe College on October 10 in Cedar Rapids
- Nebraska Wesleyan University on October 17 in Lincoln, Nebraska
- Loras College on October 31 in Dubuque
- Simpson College on November 14 in Indianola
Each stop brings its own headaches, but also a shot to prove something. The Dutch will need to dig deep if they want to come out on top.
Key Matchups and Historical Context
Games against Coe and Wartburg always seem to mean a little more. These rivalries have shaped the conference race more than once, and odds are, they’ll be huge again this year.
If Central can step up in those moments, who knows how far they can go?
2026 Central College Football: A Season to Watch
The 2026 Central College football schedule is shaping up to be quite the ride for the Dutch. There’s a mix of tough road games and some seriously anticipated home matchups.
Historic rivalries are back on the table, which always brings out the best (and sometimes the nerves) in the team. It’s a season packed with chances for these players to really show what they’re made of.
If you’re a fan, get ready for some unforgettable moments—and maybe a few nail-biters along the way. For the full schedule and the latest updates, check out the official Central College Athletics website.
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