Chicago State is stepping onto the gridiron for the first time ever, and the Cougars aren't easing into anything — they're kicking the door open with an 10-game slate that stretches across the country and brings big-time college football to the South Side.
This fall, a new era begins. A new tradition starts. A new roar rises.
THE 2025 CHICAGO STATE FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
AUGUST 29 — ROOSEVELT — HOME
The first snap in program history. The stadium becomes electric. The Cougars take the field for the very first time.
SEPTEMBER 5 — UT MARTIN — AWAY
The first road trip. The first chance to show the country what Chicago State is building.
SEPTEMBER 12 — KENTUCKY CHRISTIAN — HOME
A new opponent steps into the historic moment. The Cougars defend their home turf under the bright lights.
SEPTEMBER 19 — BUTLER — AWAY
A Midwest clash. A chance to make noise early.
SEPTEMBER 26 — NORFOLK STATE — HOME
A battle with a respected HBCU program. Chicago shows up loud.
OCTOBER 3 — TARLETON STATE — AWAY
A Texas test of toughness and grit.
OCTOBER 17 — NORTH CAROLINA A&T — AWAY
A trip to one of the most storied HBCU programs in the nation. A massive stage for a rising program.
OCTOBER 24 — LINDENWOOD — AWAY
One more road fight before the biggest weekend of the season.
OCTOBER 31 — FT. LAUDERDALE — HOME — HOMECOMING
Homecoming. History. The first Homecoming football game ever at Chicago State. Expect a packed house and a night that becomes legend.
NOVEMBER 21 — VIRGINIA LYNCHBURG — HOME
The inaugural season closes where it started — at home, with the Cougar family behind them.
A NEW TRADITION. A NEW ENERGY. A NEW ERA.
Chicago State Football isn't just a team — it's a movement. A spark for the university. A rallying point for the South Side. A chance to build something that lasts.
Cougar Nation, get ready.
Fall 2026 is history in the making.
