Detroit, Michigan, January 22, 2026
Central Michigan University and Eastern Michigan University will begin a two-year football series at Ford Field starting in the 2026 season. This initiative aims to strengthen the historic rivalry between the two universities while enhancing community engagement in Detroit. The games will be played midweek to align with known scheduling patterns, promising exciting experiences for fans and players. The first game will be hosted by EMU, followed by CMU in 2027. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both institutions to their alumni and the local community.
Detroit, Michigan – The excitement is brewing in Detroit as Central Michigan University (CMU) and Eastern Michigan University (EMU) join forces to announce a two-year football series at Ford Field, kicking off in the 2026 season. This strategic initiative aims to amplify the longstanding rivalry between these two Michigan institutions, offering fans an incredible opportunity to witness college football in one of Detroit’s premier venues, rich with sports tradition.
As the nation continues to witness a resurgence in local sports and community involvement, the connection between the universities and the Detroit community is bound to grow stronger, especially with a considerable number of alumni calling Detroit home. The games are set to be played on midweek nights, aligning them with the popular “MACtion” schedule and promising an electrifying atmosphere for fans and players alike. The Mid-American Conference (MAC) will soon unveil the specific game dates, anticipated in early March.
### A Historic Rivalry
The Central Michigan–Eastern Michigan football rivalry holds a special place in college athletics, dating back to 1902, making it the oldest rivalry in the MAC. With 103 games played throughout its history, CMU currently leads the series with a record of 65–32–6. This rich legacy is a testament to the passion and competitiveness of Michigan’s collegiate sports.
### A Prime Venue: Ford Field
Hosting the upcoming games at Ford Field not only enhances the experience for fans but also showcases a venue that has a storied history of hosting significant college football events, including the MAC Championship and various bowl games. With its extensive capacity and modern facilities, Ford Field ensures that attendees will enjoy an unforgettable atmosphere, further bridging the gap between the universities and the Detroit community.
### Strengthening Community Ties
The 2026 game will be under the banner of EMU as the host team, while CMU will take on that role in 2027. This scheduling not only elevates the rivalry but also demonstrates the universities’ commitment to community engagement and collaboration. Bringing these rival teams to Detroit allows both institutions to harness the pride of their respective alumni bases while showcasing their dedication to the city and its neighborhoods.
### Enhancing Game Experience
As the rivalry unfolds at Ford Field, fans can expect an enhanced game experience, characterized by spirited competition and a lively crowd. The two-year series provides a unique opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in the excitement of collegiate sports, promoting local businesses and enriching the Wayne County economy. Supporting sports events like these is essential for the revitalization of Detroit’s vibrant community.
### Stay Informed
Tickets for the first game in this exciting series will go on sale this spring, with fans encouraged to stay tuned for announcements from their respective universities regarding game details and ticket availability. The anticipation surrounding these matchups will undoubtedly contribute to a renewed fervor for college football within the city.
### Conclusion
In summary, the collaboration between Central Michigan University and Eastern Michigan University marks a significant moment for collegiate sports in Detroit. The two-year football series at Ford Field not only celebrates a historic rivalry but also strengthens ties between the universities and the local community. As fans eagerly await the chance to purchase tickets, this initiative stands as a testament to the resilience and innovative spirit of Michigan’s entrepreneurs and sports enthusiasts alike.
By participating in these events, readers can play a pivotal role in uplifting local businesses and engaging with the Detroit community.
- What is the Central Michigan–Eastern Michigan football rivalry?
- The Central Michigan–Eastern Michigan football rivalry is an annual college football game between Central Michigan University (CMU) and Eastern Michigan University (EMU). The series dates back to 1902 and is the oldest rivalry in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), having begun five years before the Central Michigan-Western Michigan rivalry and six years before the Miami-Ohio rivalry. With 103 games played, CMU leads the series with a record of 65–32–6.
- Where will the upcoming games be played?
- The upcoming games will be played at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan.
- When will the games take place?
- The games are scheduled to begin in the 2026 season. The Mid-American Conference (MAC) will release the specific game dates in early March.
- Who will host the games?
- Eastern Michigan University (EMU) will host the 2026 game, with Central Michigan University (CMU) serving as the home team in 2027.
- How can fans purchase tickets?
- Tickets for the 2026 game will go on sale in the spring. Fans are encouraged to stay updated through official university channels for the latest information on game dates and ticket availability.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rivalry History | Established in 1902, the Central Michigan–Eastern Michigan football rivalry is the oldest in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), with 103 games played. CMU leads the series with a record of 65–32–6. |
| Game Venue | Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan, known for hosting various college football games, including the MAC Championship and bowl games. |
| Game Dates | The games are scheduled to begin in the 2026 season. The Mid-American Conference (MAC) will release the specific game dates in early March. |
| Hosting Teams | EMU will host the 2026 game, with CMU serving as the home team in 2027. |
| Ticket Information | Tickets for the 2026 game will go on sale in the spring. Fans are encouraged to stay updated through official university channels for the latest information on game dates and ticket availability. |
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