Missouri State University has announced exciting non-conference football series for its inaugural season as a Division I FBS program in 2025. The Bears have finalized home-and-home series against Southern Methodist University (SMU) and Marshall University, with games set to begin in 2025 and reciprocal games in 2026. This includes the program’s first-ever home game against an FBS opponent on September 13, 2025, against SMU at Robert W. Plaster Stadium.
In addition to these series, previously announced games at Arkansas and a home game against UT Martin will round out Missouri State’s inaugural FBS non-conference schedule in 2025. The Bears will also play eight games in Conference USA next season. Season ticket information is available for those interested in attending games.
Missouri State will enter its final season at the FCS level with 20 returning starters, following a strong performance under head coach Ryan Beard in the previous season. The team’s transition to FBS football in 2025 will coincide with joining Conference USA.
SMU, led by head coach Rhett Lashlee, had an impressive 2023 season, finishing with an 11-3 record. Marshall is also a strong program, having made a bowl game in each of the last seven seasons. Head coach Charles Huff has a 22-17 record with the Thundering Herd and has scored notable victories over Power Five teams in recent years.
Overall, Missouri State’s upcoming football season promises exciting matchups against formidable opponents as they prepare for their transition to FBS football.
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Photo credit missouristatebears.com
