By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Published January 23, 2026
College football is officially coming to Joe Davis Stadium.
For the first time since the stadium’s renovation, Division I college football will be played on Wicks Family Field when the University of North Alabama takes on Samford to open the 2026 season. The in-state matchup is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 29, with kickoff set for 6 p.m.
City leaders say the game marks a major milestone for Huntsville’s growing reputation as a regional sports destination.
“When we renovated Joe Davis Stadium, we focused on making it a multi-purpose venue that could host professional soccer as well as other sporting and entertainment events,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “We are excited to welcome our friends at UNA and Samford and are honored they chose Huntsville to kick off their football season.”
The matchup renews an in-state rivalry and gives North Alabama a prominent neutral-site stage to open the season. It also marks UNA’s second appearance in Huntsville in four years, following the Lions’ 2022 matchup against Jacksonville State at Toyota Field.
“We are thrilled to team up with Huntsville’s leadership to bring marquee neutral-site events to one of the fastest-growing markets in the Southeast,” said UNA Director of Athletics Dr. Josh Looney. “Huntsville is home to an incredible base of UNA alumni and supporters, and opening the 2026 season here gives us a powerful opportunity to energize North Alabama.”
Samford will enter the game under new leadership, as the Bulldogs begin the John Grass era after hiring the veteran coach in December.
“We are excited about the opportunity to open the 2026 season at this great venue in Huntsville,” said Samford Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Martin Newton. “Taking on a quality in-state opponent at a neutral site is a great way to kick off the season.”
Tickets for the game are expected to go on sale in February, with organizers planning fan-friendly experiences both inside and outside the stadium.
Mark Russell, executive director of the Huntsville Sports Commission, said the event is about more than football.
“This is more than a game — it’s an event celebrating the start of college football season,” Russell said. “We look forward to delivering a first-class experience.”
The game adds to a busy fall sports calendar for Huntsville, which will also host multiple national and international championship events later in 2026.
