JMU, Sun Belt Conference announce 2026 schedule

After a longer-than-expected wait, James Madison University and the Sun Belt Conference have officially released the Dukes’ 2026 football schedule, giving fans their first look at the slate that will mark head coach Billy Napier’s inaugural season in Harrisonburg. Athletic department officials confirmed the 12-game lineup Tuesday morning, ending months of speculation about when the league would finalize the future rotation.

The announcement provides clarity for Napier’s staff as they map out recruiting visits, summer camp dates, and preseason preparations. While the program has not disclosed specific opponents or game dates, the release assures that the Dukes will face a balanced mix of conference and non-conference foes, continuing JMU’s transition deeper into Sun Belt play.

Season-ticket information and priority seating charts are expected to follow within the next few weeks, with the athletic department promising additional details as the 2026 campaign draws nearer.