UNA and Samford Coming to Huntsville
Division I college football is coming to Joe Davis Stadium as North Alabama and Samford meet in a neutral-site season opener on August 29, 2026. The game will mark the first college football contest played at Wicks Family Field since the stadium’s renovation.
Address: 3125 Leeman Ferry Road SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
For the first time since its transformation into a multi-purpose venue, Joe Davis Stadium will host Division I college football.
The 2026 season will kick off on August 29 when the University of North Alabama faces Samford University at Wicks Family Field in Huntsville. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
The matchup renews an in-state rivalry and marks a milestone for the stadium, which was renovated to accommodate a variety of sporting and entertainment events. While the venue is now home to Huntsville City FC, city leaders have long envisioned bringing additional events, including college football, to the facility.
The game will serve as the season opener for both programs. For UNA, it will be another opportunity to play in the Rocket City after hosting Jacksonville State at Toyota Field in 2022. Samford will enter the game under new head coach John Grass, who was hired in December.
Organizers say fans can expect more than just a football game. Several fan-focused activities are planned both inside and outside the stadium, creating a full event atmosphere to celebrate the start of the college football season.
Tickets are expected to go on sale in February.
The game adds to an already busy sports calendar for Huntsville in 2026, with the city also set to host major national and international competitions throughout the year.