Allendale, Mich., January 2026: The Grand Valley State University (GVSU) football team has finalized its 2026 schedule, setting the stage for a competitive season filled with strong rivals, key home games at Lubbers Stadium, and challenging road contests across the region. The Lakers, known for passionate fans and a proud football tradition, will open their campaign in late August and compete through mid–November.
With a mix of non-conference matchups and Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) battles, the 2026 campaign promises excitement for players and supporters alike.
2026 Grand Valley State Football Schedule – At a Glance
Below is the full schedule showing opponents, dates, and game locations:
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 27 (Thu) | vs University of Charleston | Lubbers Stadium (Allendale, MI) | Season opener |
| Sep 3 (Thu) | vs West Texas A&M* | Lubbers Stadium | White Out Game |
| Sep 12 (Sat) | at Ashland University | Ashland, OH | Non-conference road game |
| Sep 19 (Sat) | vs Judson College | Lubbers Stadium | Family Day |
| Oct 3 (Sat) | vs Wayne State University | Lubbers Stadium | GLIAC contest |
| Oct 10 (Sat) | at Michigan Tech | Houghton, MI | GLIAC road game |
| Oct 17 (Sat) | vs Ferris State University | Lubbers Stadium | Anchor-Bone rivalry |
| Oct 24 (Sat) | at Saginaw Valley State University | University Center, MI | GLIAC road test |
| Oct 31 (Sat) | at Roosevelt University | Chicago, IL | GLIAC matchup |
| Nov 7 (Sat) | vs Northern Michigan University | Lubbers Stadium | Senior Day celebration |
| Nov 14 (Sat) | at Davenport University | Grand Rapids, MI | GLIAC road finale |
Game highlights from Buffalo Football announcement include GVSU as a road opponent on Sep 3.
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Season Kickoff: Non-Conference Action
The Lakers begin the 2026 season at home against the University of Charleston (WV) on Aug 27, marking an early test before conference play.
Sep 3’s “White Out” matchup against West Texas A&M at Lubbers Stadium follows, bringing a special atmosphere with fans encouraged to don white. Both home openers give GVSU a chance to build momentum before the first road trip.
On Sep 12, the team travels to face Ashland University, setting up an early test outside the GLIAC. Sep 19’s Family Day game against Judson College returns the Lakers to Allendale, inviting families and fans to enjoy football and festivities.
Conference Stretch: GLIAC Battles Await
Home Stand and Rivalries
The Lakers kick off Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference play at home on Oct 3 against Wayne State University. Hosting Ferris State on Oct 17 brings one of the conference’s marquee matchups, often highlighted by physical play and strong fan support.
Senior Day on Nov 7 against Northern Michigan University will be a special occasion as the team honors its upperclassmen in one of the final home games of the season.
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Road Challenges
GVSU hits the road for several key GLIAC games:
- Oct 10 at Michigan Tech
- Oct 24 at Saginaw Valley State University
- Oct 31 at Roosevelt University
- Nov 14 at Davenport University
Each road contest will test the Lakers’ resilience and depth, especially as teams jockey for conference positioning down the stretch.
Matchday Venues & Fan Experience
Lubbers Stadium – Home of the Lakers
Most home games take place at Lubbers Stadium in Allendale, Michigan—a venue known for its energetic crowd and strong support for the Lakers. Fans can expect spirited environments for White Out, Family Day, rivalry games, and Senior Day.
Away Stadiums – Regional Rivalries
Road trips offer Lakers fans a chance to follow the team to classic Great Lakes cities:
- Houghton, MI (Michigan Tech)
- University Center, MI (SVSU)
- Chicago, IL (Roosevelt)
- Grand Rapids, MI (Davenport)
Watch in the 2026 Season
- Strong Home Presence: With multiple home games early, GVSU has a chance to build confidence and secure early wins.
- Key Rivalry Battles: The Ferris State matchup and GLIAC road tests could determine conference positioning.
- Development & Depth: Road games will reveal the strength and adaptability of the Lakers’ roster.
Read more: WVU Football Schedule
Conclusion
The Grand Valley State University football schedule for 2026 brings an engaging blend of personalities, traditions, and competition. With high-energy home games, meaningful conference battles, and a full slate of dates from late August through mid-November, Lakers fans have plenty to look forward to this season.
