WKU Football just signed kicker Michael Smith and defensive back Alan Gbee, a move that’s got fans buzzing for the upcoming season. Smith, coming in from Florida A&M, and Gbee, who played at Moorpark College, both bring serious experience and talent to the Hilltoppers.
They’re expected to make a real impact on special teams and defense as WKU gets ready for the 2026 opener against Nevada on September 5. With the full 2026 schedule out and tickets already on sale, there’s a lot to get excited about if you’re following the Hilltoppers.
Michael Smith: A Proven Kicker with a Strong Track Record
Michael Smith is joining WKU after showing off his kicking skills at Florida A&M. Over the 2023 and 2024 seasons, he played in 16 games, mostly handling kickoff duties.
- 88 kickoffs for a total of 5,310 yards
- Average of 60.3 yards per attempt
- 37 touchbacks
In 2023 alone, Smith had 76 kickoffs, averaging 59.8 yards and hitting 28 touchbacks. He even nailed a 49-yard field goal against then-No. 12 Miami, which says a lot about his nerves in big moments.
Smith’s high school days at Maclay High School in Florida also showed he was a standout kicker from early on.
Alan Gbee: A Versatile Defensive Back
Alan Gbee is bringing his defensive skills and flexibility to WKU. His path includes time at Moorpark College, Coffeyville Community College, and Misericordia University.
At Moorpark, he played in 10 games and put up some solid numbers:
- 25 tackles
- One tackle for loss
- One interception
Gbee’s time at Moorpark really showed what he can do on defense. Before that, he had stints at Coffeyville and Misericordia, where he made four tackles in the 2023 season.
His high school experience at Tuscarora High School in Virginia adds another layer to his football background.
WKU Football 2026 Season: What to Expect
The Hilltoppers are gearing up for a 2026 season that looks packed with action. Things kick off September 5 with an away game at Nevada.
The full schedule is out, so fans can already start mapping out their game days and planning to support the team.
Season and Away Game Tickets
Season tickets are up for grabs now, starting at just $50. There are several ticket levels, so most folks should be able to find something that fits their budget or style.
Tickets for away games, like the ones against Georgia and Indiana, are also on sale. Just a heads up—the deadline to renew season tickets and grab those away game seats is June 30.
If you’re interested in tickets but not sure where to start, the WKU Ticket Office can help you out. Fill out the form, and someone will reach out to help you lock in your seats for the season.
Stay Connected with WKU Football
If you want to keep up with the latest WKU Football news, following the team on social media is the way to go. They’re active on Twitter and Instagram at @WKUFootball, and you can like their Facebook page for even more updates and content.
Conclusion
Michael Smith and Alan Gbee have joined the WKU Football roster, and honestly, that’s pretty exciting for Hilltopper fans. Smith brings a strong leg to the kicking game, while Gbee’s got a knack for defense and can play all over the field.
The 2026 schedule is out, and tickets are already up for grabs. If you’re even a little curious about what these new players will bring, this fall might be the perfect time to check things out.
Want the details on the roster moves or thinking about getting tickets? Take a look at the official WKU Sports website.
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