By Kendrick Marshall
HBCU Sports
https://hbcusports.com/
Mississippi Valley State will open the 2026 football season on the road against Sacramento State, marking the first-ever meeting between the two programs.
The game is scheduled for Sept. 5 in Sacramento, California, according to FBSchedules.The nonconference matchup gives the Delta Devils an early opportunity to test themselves against a program steadily climbing the Football Championship Subdivision ranks—and possibly beyond.
Sacramento State has been one of the Big Sky Conference’s most consistent performers in recent years, posting multiple playoff appearances and conference titles since 2019.
In recent months, the Hornets have also made headlines for exploring a potential move to the Football Bowl Subdivision.
Athletic department officials have studied feasibility options for joining a Group of Five conference, citing growing fan support, competitive success, and the expanding footprint of West Coast football.
The school’s recent football investment highlights its push to raise national visibility.
For Mississippi Valley State, the trip to California represents a chance to measure progress. The Delta Devils continue to rebuild in the Southwestern Athletic Conference and view early-season games like this one as critical experience builders against quality FCS competition.
Kendrick Marshall
Kendrick Marshall is an award-winning journalist and a graduate of Jackson State University.
