Eastern Illinois Panthers face Minnesota Gophers in season opener

Eastern Illinois Panthers play the Minnesota Gophers today, September 3, 2026, to open their respective football schedules. This contest marks the first of 12 games on the regular season slate for both programs. The matchup takes place in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where the Gophers previously hosted games at TCF Bank Stadium. As both teams look to establish momentum early in the year, the focus remains on the initial performance in this season debut. The game represents the beginning of the competitive cycle for both athletic departments as they work through their 12-game schedule.

• 11:30 PMYahoo Sports — OPEN THREAD: Eastern Illinois Panthers at Minnesota Gophers