ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — Elizabeth City State University has officially released its 2026 football schedule, featuring an exciting slate of CIAA matchups, key rivalry games, and special events designed to engage Viking fans, alumni, and the broader community.

The Vikings will open the season on August 29, 2026, hosting Fort Valley State University during the highly anticipated Legends Weekend, a celebration honoring the rich tradition and legacy of ECSU football.

Following the season opener, ECSU will travel to face North Carolina Central University on September 5 before returning home to take on Virginia State University on September 19. The Vikings will also host Bowie State University on September 26 in another key conference matchup.

Conference play continues with a road contest at Virginia Union University on October 3, followed by Homecoming on October 10 against Lincoln University—one of the season's marquee events.

The Vikings will close out October with road games against Fayetteville State University and Livingstone College, before returning home for Senior Day on October 31 versus Winston-Salem State University.

ECSU wraps up the regular season on November 7 at Bluefield State University, with aspirations of advancing to the CIAA Championship and the NCAA Division II Playoffs beginning November 21.

"This schedule reflects our commitment to competitive excellence and meaningful engagement with our alumni and supporters. We are ready to take another step in the right direction in year two." said head ECSU football coach Adrian Jones. 

Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars and support the Vikings throughout the 2026 campaign.

For more information, visit ecsuvikings.com. Finalized game times and ticketing information for the 2026 Football season will be released towards the end of May.