Penn state football schedule

On 22 September 2026, Penn State University officially updated its future football scheduling landscape, confirming a series of high-profile non-conference matchups extending through the 2030 season. The announcement highlights the athletic department's commitment to maintaining a rigorous schedule as the Big Ten Conference continues to evolve. The updated slate includes a home-and-home series against a prominent SEC program and a renewed regional rivalry, aimed at maximizing television exposure and strengthening the team's postseason resume. Athletic Director Pat Kraft emphasized that these scheduling decisions are designed to provide fans with marquee matchups while ensuring the Nittany Lions remain competitive on the national stage. The current 2026 season remains the primary focus for head coach James Franklin, but these long-term additions provide clarity for future recruiting classes and season ticket holders. By securing these opponents now, Penn State aims to balance its challenging conference rotation with non-league games that carry significant weight in the expanded College Football Playoff era, ensuring the program remains a consistent contender for national championships in the coming years.