Illinois Future Schedules

The University of Illinois and University of Missouri have announced plans for a four-game, home-and-home football series from 2026-2029. 

"We are pleased to reestablish the football rivalry series against Missouri," Illinois Director of Athletics Josh Whitman said. "As our football program advances, it is important that we build our nonconference schedule accordingly. The opportunity to compete against an opponent from the Southeastern Conference and to play a geographic rival like Missouri will be exciting for our players, coaches, and fans. I want to thank Missouri Director of Athletics Jim Sterk and his staff for their collaboration. We look forward to a spirited series."

Series Details
Sept. 26, 2026 in Champaign, Ill. 
Sept. 18, 2027 in Columbia, Mo.
Sept. 16, 2028 in Champaign, Ill.
Sept. 15, 2029 in Columbia, Mo.

"Resuming our series with Missouri will be a great thing," Illini Head Coach Lovie Smith said. "The schools represent great conferences, they represent border states, and the schools compete in several other sports, including the Braggin' Rights Series in basketball. This is just a natural fit."

Illinois and Missouri have met 24 times previously, with the Tigers holding a 17-7 advantage. The most recent meeting came in 2010, a 23-13 Mizzou win in St. Louis.