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UND football hosts Long Island University in season opener tonight

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 12:31 AM

Last updated Aug 28, 2026

UND football hosts Long Island University in season opener tonight
Summary

The University of North Dakota football team opens its 2026 season against Long Island University at 7 p.m. at Alerus Center. This matchup marks the first meeting between the teams. LIU, led by head coach Ron Cooper, is coming off a season where their offensive strategy relied heavily on the quarterback run game. While they finished 5-6 last season, the Sharks gained national attention with a win over Eastern Michigan. Key player Trey Watkins returns as a first-team all-conference safety. Both teams are looking to establish themselves early in the season with this significant encounter.

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Status Watch
  • •UND hosts Long Island University in season opener tonight
  • •LIU's head coach is Ron Cooper, hired in December 2021
  • •Trey Watkins earned all-NEC first team honors last season
  • •LIU finished 2025 with five wins in their last six games
  • •The matchup marks the first meeting between the two programs
Latest Updates
  • 12:31 AMYahoo Sports — LIVE UND vs. Long Island University, 7 p.m.
  • 12:34 AMYahoo Sports — 8 things to know about UND's opponent Long Island University
What they're saying
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Aug. 26—GRAND FORKS — The UND football program opens the 2026 season at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Alerus Center against a first-time foe in Long Island University. Here are eight things to know about the Sharks. LIU featured an offense last season utilizing the quarterback run game, behind co-offensive coordinators Kort Shankweiler and John Roberts. The Sharks have a new play-caller in 2026 in ...

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Aug. 27—GRAND FORKS — The UND football program kicks off the 2026 football season at 7 p.m. Thursday against Long Island University at the Alerus Center. Follow along for live updates. © 2026 the Grand Forks Herald (Grand Forks, N.D.). Visit www.grandforksherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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