The Minnesota Golden Gophers kick off the 2026 season on Thursday night when they host the Eastern Illinois Panthers (1-0) from the FCS at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.

How to watch Eastern Illinois vs Minnesota: Live stream College Football, NCAA, TV Channel

Nov 22, 2025; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Eastern Illinois Panthers quarterback Connor Wolf (15) looks for a receiver during the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Leong-Imagn Images

How to Watch Eastern Illinois vs Minnesota

  • When: Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026
  • Time: 8:00 PM ET
  • TV Channel: NBCSN
  • Live Stream: Fubo (try for free)

Minnesota quarterback Drake Lindsay is back for his third year as the starter, as the Golden Gophers will lean heavily on returning players. Defensive end Anthony Smith returned for his fifth year after leading the Big Ten in sacks in 2025 and earning preseason Defensive Player of the Year honors. Cornerback John Nestor tied for the conference lead with six interceptions, and left guard Greg Johnson anchors an experienced offensive line. Starting receivers Jalen Smith and Javon Tracy also return from an 8-5 team that beat New Mexico in the Rate Bowl.

Eastern Illinois pulled away in the second half for a 28-14 road win at Murray State on Aug. 27. Charles Kellom scored three touchdowns on the ground, including an 88-yard burst in the first half, and finished with 171 yards on 19 carries as the Panthers piled up 267 rushing yards. Cole LaCrue shook off five sacks to go 11-of-18 for 101 yards, a touchdown, and the defense picked off two passes.

The Golden Gophers, who extended their winning streak in bowl games to nine last season, meet the Panthers for just the second time after getting a 42-20 win at home back in 2014.

This is a great college football matchup you will not want to miss; tune in and catch all the action.

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Source: Yahoo Sports