✦ Edited and fact-checked by David Vick, our Contributing Writer, with over five years covering sports.
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Central Michigan football enters 2026 with the most momentum they’ve had in years. After posting a 7–6 record and ending a four-year bowl drought in Matt Drinkall’s first season on the sideline, vibes are high, and expectations are higher in Mount Pleasant. The Chips just need better play from the quarterback position to take another step forward in the MAC.
CMU will play on ESPN+, FS1, and The CW. They’re also scheduled to appear on either CBS Sports Network, ESPN2, or ESPNU — with specific network assignments still to be announced.
This guide has the important details you need to watch Central Michigan football all season long, from the schedule table to the services that make the most sense for the Chips’ channel mix. For the broader viewing playbook, start with our How To Watch College Football guide.
2026 Central Michigan Chippewas TV schedule
Central Michigan’s schedule has a distinct Michigan flavor, highlighted by the Michigan MAC Trophy games against Eastern Michigan and Western Michigan. The Chippewas also play both Miami schools: Miami (FL) and Miami (OH).
Use the table below for the latest kickoff times and channel assignments. And if you want to map out the national slate around Central Michigan’s games, see our College Football TV Schedule breakdown.
CFB - Central Michigan Chippewas Schedule
| Opponent | Date | Time (ET) | Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
At New Mexico Lobos | Saturday, Sept. 5 | 10:00 p.m. | |
Colgate Raiders | Saturday, Sept. 12 | 1:00 p.m. | |
Wyoming Cowboys | Saturday, Sept. 19 | 1:00 p.m. | |
Saturday, Sept. 26 | 6:30 p.m. | ||
Akron Zips | Saturday, Oct. 3 | TBD | TBD |
At Ohio Bobcats | Saturday, Oct. 10 | TBD | TBD |
Western Michigan Broncos | Saturday, Oct. 17 | TBD | TBD |
Miami (OH) RedHawks | Saturday, Oct. 24 | TBD | TBD |
At Eastern Michigan Eagles | Wednesday, Nov. 4 | TBD | TBD |
Sacramento State Hornets | Wednesday, Nov. 11 | TBD | TBD |
At Buffalo Bulls | Wednesday, Nov. 18 | TBD | TBD |
At Ball State Cardinals | Saturday, Nov. 28 | Noon | TBD |
Best TV plans for watching Central Michigan Chippewas football
Unfortunately, no single subscription is going to get you access to all Central Michigan games this year. You’re going to need to bundle a live TV provider with ESPN Unlimited. Luckily, we found the best option on the market.
Our viewing recommendations reflect the availability, cost, and usability approach detailed in our Editorial Policy. For more live-TV options, see our Best Streaming Services for Sports breakdown.
Best Overall
When the budget option is the best option, you’re winning as a sports fan. That’s where the YouTube TV Sports Plan stands out this season. It has every channel you need at the best price. This is the easiest choice you’ll make all year, Central Michigan fans!
Exclusive Games
CMU’s early-season home games against Colgate and Wyoming are confirmed for ESPN+, which is only available through an ESPN Unlimited subscription. Currently, those are the only two games that require the service.
How to watch Central Michigan Chippewas football FAQ
Where can I stream Central Michigan Chippewas games if I don't have cable?
As we recommended above, YouTube TV and ESPN Unlimited make a great pairing for watching Central Michigan games this season if you don't have cable. Hulu + Live TV is a helpful live-TV provider as well, but it's more expensive than YouTube TV.
Can I watch Central Michigan Chippewas football with ESPN Unlimited?
Yes, you can watch multiple Central Michigan games with ESPN Unlimited this season. The Chippewas' games on September 12 and 19 on ESPN+ will stream through ESPN Unlimited in the ESPN App.
How do I watch Central Michigan Chippewas football if I live out of state?
Out-of-state fans can watch Central Michigan football games through the same national channels and streaming services listed in the schedule section of this guide. College football coverage follows national, conference, and streaming deals — not a local-market package like other sports.
CableTV.com editors created this article using original analysis and proprietary inputs, with AI tools assisting in drafting. The final content was reviewed and edited for accuracy and quality.
