San Luis Obispo, CA – Cal Poly Football unveiled its 2026 schedule today, marking a new chapter for the program under first-year head coach Tim Skipper. The schedule blends nine Big Sky Conference matchups with three non-conference contests, signaling a commitment to both regional competition and broader exposure for the Mustangs.
The 2026 season will kick off with a unique twist: a Big Sky opener against Idaho on Friday, August 28th, at Mustang Memorial Field Presented by French Hospital at Spanos Stadium. This early conference game sets the tone for a season where the Mustangs aim to establish themselves within the Big Sky. Skipper, hired in December 2025, will be looking to build on the program’s foundation as it navigates a challenging schedule.
The Mustangs will enjoy a favorable home-field advantage early in the season, hosting three of their first four games. Following the season opener, Cal Poly will welcome Division II Central Washington on September 5th. A road trip to San Jose State on September 12th represents the team’s sole Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) contest of the year, offering a significant test against a higher-level opponent. The non-conference schedule concludes at home on September 19th against the University of San Diego.
Big Sky Competition Heats Up
After the non-conference portion, Cal Poly dives into the heart of Big Sky play. A road game at Eastern Washington on September 26th precedes a return to Spanos Stadium to host Weber State on October 3rd. The Mustangs then face consecutive road challenges at Idaho State and Northern Colorado. A notable addition to the schedule is Utah Tech, which joins the Big Sky Conference in 2026. Cal Poly will host the Trailblazers for their first conference clash on October 24th.
The schedule doesn’t let up, with a challenging road game against the 2025 FCS National Champions, Montana State, on October 31st. The Mustangs’ home finale is set for November 7th against Northern Arizona, before a bye week provides a crucial opportunity for rest and preparation. The regular season concludes with a rivalry game on the road against UC Davis on November 21st.
New Era for Cal Poly Football
The 2026 season is poised to be a period of significant change and growth for Cal Poly Football. Skipper has already added 39 new players to the roster, injecting fresh talent and competition into the program. The university is nearing completion of the $45 million John Madden Football Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance the student-athlete experience and honor the legacy of Cal Poly alum and football icon John Madden. Cal Poly Athletic Director Carter Henderson expressed excitement about the new facility and Skipper’s leadership.
Skipper’s hiring marks the first major decision by Henderson, who was appointed athletic director in September following the retirement of Don Oberhelman. Mustang News reported that Skipper aims to instill a culture of excellence, mirroring the academic achievements of Cal Poly, which has earned back-to-back national championships academically.
The upcoming season represents a fresh start for the Mustangs, with a new coach, new players, and a new facility on the horizon. The team will look to build momentum and compete for a championship in the increasingly competitive Big Sky Conference.
What comes next for Cal Poly Football will be closely watched as Skipper and his team work to establish a winning culture and build upon the program’s rich history. Share your thoughts on the 2026 schedule and the future of Cal Poly Football in the comments below.
