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Penn State University is gearing up for its 2026 football season opener against Marshall on Saturday (September 5) at Beaver Stadium. The game, set to begin at 3:30 p.m. ET and broadcast on FS1, marks the start of the Matt Campbell era as head coach of the Nittany Lions.
Matt Campbell, who was hired last December, previously served as head coach at Iowa State, where he became the winningest coach in the school's history. His debut game at Penn State is highly anticipated, with the Nittany Lions ranked No. 18/17 in the nation. The team will also host its 11th annual Stripe Out game, a tradition that energizes the home crowd.
Penn State's roster has undergone significant changes, with the addition of 62 newcomers, including 40 transfers. Among the key players is redshirt senior quarterback Rocco Becht, who brings a wealth of experience from Iowa State. Becht is on several award watch lists and is expected to be a pivotal figure in the Nittany Lions' offense.
The defense, led by players like linebacker Tony Rojas and safety Jeremiah Cooper, is also reloaded with talent and experience. Both players are on multiple award watch lists, highlighting their potential impact this season.
Marshall, the opposing team, finished the 2025 season with a 5-7 record. They return key players such as quarterback Carlos Del Rio-Wilson and cornerback Boogie Trotter, who will aim to challenge Penn State's revamped lineup.
Fans can catch the game on FS1 or stream it via the Fox Sports Go app or Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers. As the Nittany Lions embark on a new chapter under Campbell, the game against Marshall will set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season.