Story perspectives

Penn State Football's 2026 Schedule: No Ohio State Matchup

1/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) football will not face Ohio State in 2026, the first absence since joining the Big Ten.
The 2026 non-conference slate includes Marshall, Temple, Buffalo.
The 2026 schedule lists home opponents USC, Minnesota, Purdue, Rutgers, Wisconsin, and road opponents Maryland, Michigan, Northwestern, Washington.
The Big Ten will release the 2026 schedule on January 27.
In 2027, Penn State replaces Delaware with Maine due to conference realignment.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1896, the Big Ten Conference began with seven universities, evolving to 14 members, including Penn State since 1993. The conference's realignment reflects the changing landscape of college athletics, impacting traditional rivalries like Penn State versus Ohio State. This ongoing evolution highlights the complexities of college sports as institutions adapt to new competitive dynamics and fan expectations.

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Story summary

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) football will not face Ohio State in 2026, the first absence since joining the Big Ten.
The 2026 non-conference slate includes Marshall, Temple, Buffalo.
The 2026 schedule lists home opponents USC, Minnesota, Purdue, Rutgers, Wisconsin, and road opponents Maryland, Michigan, Northwestern, Washington.
The Big Ten will release the 2026 schedule on January 27.
In 2027, Penn State replaces Delaware with Maine due to conference realignment.

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