Image Source: New Mexico Lobos
Central MI vs New Mexico is set to open the 2026 college football season under the lights, with the New Mexico Lobos welcoming the Central Michigan Chippewas to University Stadium in Albuquerque. The matchup is scheduled for Friday, September 4, 2026, with kickoff at 8:10 p.m. Mountain Time.
The game will mark the first meeting between New Mexico and Central Michigan. With a new season beginning at home, the Lobos are preparing for an energetic opening-night atmosphere as fans return to University Stadium for another campaign of New Mexico football.
Central MI vs New Mexico Delivers a Powerful Season Opener
New Mexico Athletics has billed the contest as a major home event to launch the 2026 schedule. The Lobos will face a Central Michigan team making its first appearance against UNM, creating an intriguing nonconference matchup for fans of both programs.
The opening-night contest also offers New Mexico an early opportunity to establish momentum. Home-field energy, a national television audience and a fresh schedule should make the game one of the most anticipated events on the Lobos’ early-season calendar.
Fans attending the game are encouraged to review the latest football gameday information before arriving. The athletics department has also announced updated Stadium East parking procedures for the 2026 football season, making advance planning especially important for spectators driving to the stadium.
Game Details Fans Need to Know
- Matchup: New Mexico Lobos vs. Central Michigan Chippewas
- Date: Friday, September 4, 2026
- Kickoff: 8:10 p.m. Mountain Time
- Location: University Stadium in Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Series history: The teams are meeting for the first time
- Television: FS1
- Radio: Lobo Radio Network
How to Watch the Lobos and Chippewas
The game will be televised nationally on FS1, giving college football viewers a chance to watch the Lobos’ season opener from home. Coverage is expected to be available through most major satellite and cable television packages that carry the network.
Carlo Jimenez will handle play-by-play duties, while Petros Papadakis will provide analysis. The broadcast will bring the Central MI vs New Mexico matchup to a broader audience as both programs begin the 2026 season.
Fans watching from outside the Albuquerque area should check their television provider’s FS1 channel listing ahead of kickoff. The network’s digital viewing options may also depend on an active television subscription or participating service.
Radio Coverage Begins With Pregame Action
Supporters who prefer radio coverage can follow the contest through the Lobo Radio Network. The Albuquerque flagship station is 770 KKOB-AM, with a simulcast available on 96.3 FM.
The pregame show is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Mountain Time, one hour before kickoff. Robert Portnoy will provide the play-by-play call, with former Lobo DonTrell Moore serving as analyst. Ned James is listed as the sideline reporter.
The radio broadcast will also be available online through the official New Mexico Athletics audio stream. That option gives fans another way to follow the game if they are traveling, away from a television or unable to attend in person.
Important Gameday Reminders
University Stadium is expected to welcome fans for the first home football game of the new season. Attendees should allow extra time for parking, stadium entry and security procedures, particularly because updated parking arrangements are in effect for 2026.
New Mexico Athletics provides several ticket options for the opener, including single-game tickets, season tickets and mini plans. A promotion also allows children ages 12 and under to attend for free under the stated ticket terms.
For the smoothest experience, fans should have tickets ready before reaching the stadium, review parking instructions and arrive early enough to enjoy the pregame atmosphere. The 8:10 p.m. start also means much of the action will take place after sunset, adding to the excitement of the season-opening setting.
Why This Opening Game Matters
The Central MI vs New Mexico contest is more than a routine nonconference game. It is the first chance for the Lobos to compete in front of their home supporters in 2026, while the first-ever meeting gives the matchup a distinctive storyline.
For fans, the game combines a fresh football season, a national broadcast and a new opponent. For the programs, it represents an early test and an opportunity to begin the year with confidence. Once the lights come on at University Stadium, attention will turn to the players and coaches responsible for setting the tone for the months ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Central MI vs New Mexico game?
The New Mexico Lobos will host the Central Michigan Chippewas on Friday, September 4, 2026.
What time does New Mexico play Central Michigan?
Kickoff is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. Mountain Time at University Stadium in Albuquerque.
What channel is carrying the game?
The game will be broadcast nationally on FS1.
How can fans listen to the matchup?
The Lobo Radio Network will carry the broadcast on 770 KKOB-AM and its Albuquerque simulcast at 96.3 FM. Pregame coverage begins at 7 p.m. Mountain Time.
