The 2026 North Alabama Lions football schedule is set. North Alabama plays in the United Athletic Conference and runs a 12-game season. The Lions open August 29 vs Samford (Huntsville). Below is the complete 2026 schedule, a free printable one-pager, and how the season sets up.
2026 North Alabama Football: Quick Facts
Last updated: August 10, 2026
- Conference: United Athletic Conference (FCS)
- Home stadium: Bank Independent Stadium, Florence, AL
- Regular season: 12 games (6 home games, 5 on the road, and 1 neutral-site game)
- Conference games: 7
- Opener: August 29 vs Samford (Huntsville)
- Finale: November 21 vs Tarleton State
2026 North Alabama Football Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Site | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 29 | vs Samford | Neutral (Huntsville, AL) | Non-conference |
| Sept 5 | at Arkansas | Away | Non-conference |
| Sept 12 | at Southeastern Louisiana | Away | Non-conference |
| Sept 19 | vs Alcorn State | Home | Non-conference |
| Sept 26 | vs Western Illinois | Home | Non-conference |
| Oct 3 | at Eastern Kentucky | Away | UAC |
| Oct 17 | vs Abilene Christian | Home | UAC |
| Oct 24 | vs Austin Peay | Home | UAC |
| Oct 31 | at Central Arkansas | Away | UAC |
| Nov 7 | vs West Florida | Home | UAC |
| Nov 14 | at West Georgia | Away | UAC |
| Nov 21 | vs Tarleton State | Home | UAC |
North Alabama opens the season August 29 vs Samford (Huntsville) and closes the regular season November 21 vs Tarleton State.
How the 2026 North Alabama Season Sets Up
North Alabama plays a 12-game regular season in 2026: 5 non-conference dates and 7 United Athletic Conference games. The Lions play 6 home games, 5 on the road, and 1 neutral-site game.
North Alabama, the United Athletic Conference Race, and the FCS Playoffs
The United Athletic Conference champion earns the league automatic bid into the 24-team FCS playoff bracket, so the conference race doubles as a playoff race. Follow the standings on our 2026 United Athletic Conference football schedule and standings page and print the field with the 2026 FCS playoff bracket.
How to Watch North Alabama in 2026
North Alabama games are carried across ESPN platforms, including ESPN+, with select games on ESPN networks and regional outlets. Exact network and kickoff time for each game are confirmed in the weeks before kickoff, so bookmark this page and check back as the matchups firm up.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does North Alabama open the 2026 season?
North Alabama opens the 2026 season August 29 vs Samford (Huntsville). The regular season runs through the finale November 21 vs Tarleton State.
How many games do the Lions play in 2026?
North Alabama plays a 12-game regular season in 2026: 6 home games, 5 on the road, and 1 neutral-site game, including 7 United Athletic Conference games.
Does the United Athletic Conference champion make the FCS playoffs?
Yes. The United Athletic Conference champion earns the conference automatic bid into the 24-team FCS playoff bracket. Other United Athletic Conference teams can also earn at-large selections in a strong year.
Is there a printable North Alabama schedule?
Yes. A free printable PDF of the full 2026 North Alabama schedule is available above, with every date, opponent, and a blank column to fill in results.
How can I watch North Alabama football in 2026?
North Alabama games are carried across ESPN platforms, including ESPN+, with select games on ESPN networks and regional outlets. Exact network and kickoff time for each game are confirmed closer to gameday.
More 2026 FCS Coverage
Explore more: the 2026 United Athletic Conference football schedule and standings, the 2026 FCS football schedule and conference guide, and the printable 2026 FCS playoff bracket.
