Missouri State Football Schedule: 2025 Season

by Jhon Lennon 46 views

Alright, football fans! Let's dive into what we know (or can speculate!) about the Missouri State Bears football schedule for the 2025 season. While official schedules are usually released closer to the actual year, we can still analyze potential opponents, game dates based on past seasons, and other key details. So, buckle up as we explore the possibilities for the Bears in 2025!

Understanding the Schedule Formation

Before we jump into potential games, it's essential to understand how college football schedules are generally created. The Missouri State Bears compete in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as part of the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC). Conference games are a given, but the non-conference schedule allows for more flexibility in opponents. Here's the general structure:

  • Conference Games: As a member of the MVFC, Missouri State plays a round-robin schedule against other conference teams. This ensures a competitive and balanced conference slate. Expect to see familiar foes like North Dakota State, South Dakota State, Southern Illinois, and others on the schedule. The MVFC is a tough conference, so these games are always crucial.
  • Non-Conference Games: These games are scheduled against teams outside the MVFC. These can include other FCS schools, sometimes from different conferences, or even Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams (the higher division). These games provide opportunities for the Bears to test themselves against different competition and potentially earn valuable wins. FBS games can also provide a significant financial boost to the program.
  • Game Dates: College football games are primarily played on Saturdays, with occasional Thursday or Friday night games for television purposes. The season typically kicks off in late August or early September and runs through November. The specific dates for each game are usually announced in the winter or spring before the season.

Understanding this structure helps us make educated guesses about the 2025 schedule. Now, let's look at some potential opponents and key matchups.

Potential Opponents in 2025

Okay, so who might the Bears face in 2025? Let's break it down by conference and non-conference possibilities. For conference games, expect the usual suspects. The MVFC is known for its consistent lineup of strong teams, so Missouri State will have their work cut out for them each week.

Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) Matchups

These games are the bread and butter of the schedule. Expect a tough, physical battle every week against these conference rivals. Key matchups will likely include:

  • North Dakota State Bison: The perennial powerhouse of the MVFC. Games against NDSU are always a huge test.
  • South Dakota State Jackrabbits: Another consistent contender in the MVFC. These games are usually close and hard-fought.
  • Southern Illinois Salukis: A regional rival that always brings intensity to the field.
  • Northern Iowa Panthers: Another team always in the mix for the conference title.
  • Illinois State Redbirds: Another in-state rival that adds extra spice to the schedule.
  • Western Illinois Leathernecks: While they've had their struggles, they are still a conference opponent that the Bears need to be prepared for.
  • Indiana State Sycamores: A team that can be dangerous if overlooked.
  • Youngstown State Penguins: A team with a strong tradition and potential to surprise.
  • Murray State Racers: A newer addition to the conference, adding a fresh matchup for the Bears.

These conference games will form the core of the 2025 schedule, and the Bears will need to perform well in these matchups to contend for a conference title and a playoff berth.

Non-Conference Possibilities

The non-conference schedule is where things get interesting. This is where Missouri State can schedule games against teams from other conferences or even FBS opponents. These games can provide valuable experience and exposure for the program. Some potential non-conference opponents could include:

  • Other FCS Schools: Games against other FCS schools can be a good way to get a win and build confidence early in the season. These could be teams from conferences like the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC), the Southland Conference, or the Big Sky Conference.
  • FBS Opponents: Scheduling a game against an FBS team can be a lucrative opportunity for the program, as FBS schools often pay a significant guarantee to FCS schools to come and play them. However, these games are usually a tough challenge on the field. Potential FBS opponents could include teams from the Mid-American Conference (MAC), Conference USA, or even a Power Five conference team looking for a non-conference win.
  • Regional Opponents: Missouri State might also look to schedule games against regional opponents, regardless of their conference affiliation. This could include teams from neighboring states like Arkansas, Kansas, or Oklahoma.

It's important to remember that non-conference schedules are often set years in advance, so Missouri State may already have some non-conference games lined up for 2025. Keep an eye out for official announcements from the athletic department.

Key Games to Watch For

While the entire schedule is important, some games will undoubtedly stand out as key matchups. These are the games that could have a significant impact on Missouri State's season and their chances of making the playoffs.

  • Conference Openers: The first conference game of the season is always important, as it sets the tone for the rest of the conference schedule. A win in the conference opener can give the team a boost of confidence and momentum.
  • Rivalry Games: Games against rivals like Southern Illinois or Illinois State are always circled on the calendar. These games are usually intense and emotional, and they often have a big impact on the standings.
  • Games Against Ranked Opponents: Games against teams ranked in the top 25 are a chance for Missouri State to prove themselves against the best competition in the country. A win in these games can significantly boost their playoff resume.
  • Homecoming Game: The annual homecoming game is always a special event, and the team will want to put on a good show for the alumni and fans.
  • Senior Day: The final home game of the season is a chance to honor the seniors who have contributed so much to the program. It's always an emotional day, and the team will want to send the seniors out with a win.

Predicting the Schedule Release Date

So, when can we expect the official 2025 schedule to be released? While there's no set date, we can look at previous years for clues. Typically, college football schedules are announced in the late fall or early winter, often between November and January. Keep an eye on the Missouri State Bears Athletics website and social media channels for the official announcement. They're usually pretty good about keeping fans in the loop.

How to Stay Updated

Staying updated on the Missouri State football schedule is easier than ever. Here are some ways to make sure you don't miss any announcements:

  • Missouri State Athletics Website: This is the official source for all things Missouri State Bears. Check the website regularly for schedule updates, news, and other information.
  • Social Media: Follow the Missouri State Bears football team on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. They often post updates and announcements on these channels.
  • Local News: Local news outlets in Springfield, Missouri, will also cover the Missouri State football schedule. Keep an eye on their websites and broadcasts for updates.
  • Ticket Information: Check the Missouri State Athletics website for ticket information. Season tickets are usually the best way to guarantee you get to see all the home games.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Missouri State football schedule is still a ways off, but it's never too early to start thinking about the possibilities. With a tough conference schedule and some potentially exciting non-conference matchups, the Bears will have plenty of opportunities to showcase their talent and compete for a championship. Keep an eye on the official channels for the schedule release, and get ready to cheer on the Bears in 2025! Go Bears!