Coach Derek Mason and Middle Tennessee State football will play host to former OVC rival Murray State to kick off the 2026 college football season on Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. CT (ESPN+).

The Blue Raiders are coming off back-to-back 3-9 seasons but won their final two games last year. Murray State (0-1) opened its season Aug. 27 with a 28-14 loss to Eastern Illinois after going 1-11 in 2025.

MTSU will be wearing its white uniforms for the game, honoring the late Dolly Parton with a jersey patch of her signature and butterfly logo.

Follow below for live updates and scores throughout the game:

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Source: Yahoo Sports