Indiana Football Adds North Texas to 2026 Schedule

Why this matters: This change impacts the scheduling and financial landscape for both universities. For Indiana, it's about optimizing their non-conference schedule and future College Football Playoff considerations. For North Texas, the $1.2 million provides additional resources for their athletic program, especially towards NIL and revenue sharing initiatives.

Indiana's athletic director, Scott Dolson, mentioned the team continuously analyzes national trends and will reevaluate their future schedules based on the future format of the College Football Playoff. This scheduling decision reflects a strategic approach, balancing competition and financial considerations.

North Texas, coached by Eric Morris, is currently on a strong run, boasting a 4-0 start to the season. The Mean Green's offense ranks among the top 10 nationally. Their coach has expressed the appeal of money games in order to push more towards NIL/revenue sharing.

Looking ahead, Indiana's non-conference schedules are set through 2031, with a mix of regional and national opponents.

Future Nonconference Schedules

2026

Sept. 5 vs. North Texas

Sept. 12 vs. Howard

Sept. 19 vs. Western Kentucky

2027

Sept. 4 vs. Kennesaw State

Sept. 11 vs. Indiana State

Sept. 18 vs. UMass

2028

Sept. 2 vs. Austin Peay

Sept. 9 vs. Eastern Michigan

Sept. 16 vs. Miami Ohio

2029

Sept. 1 vs. Ball State

Sept. 8 vs. Eastern Illinois

Sept. 15 vs. Western Kentucky

2030

Aug. 31 at Notre Dame

Sept. 6 vs. Indiana State

Sept. 14 vs. Delaware

2031

Sept. 27 vs. Notre Dame

Colorado State decided to exit the deal, paying IU $100,000, leading Indiana to seek a new opponent, resulting in North Texas being added to the schedule.

North Texas will receive $1.2 million from Indiana for the game in 2026.

What are your thoughts on Indiana's non-conference scheduling strategy? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!