The kickoff times for Hampton University's upcoming football games against Maryland and Howard have been announced. The Sept. 5 game at Maryland will mark Hampton's first matchup with a Power 4 school, scheduled for 8:00 PM. Meanwhile, the historic 101st meeting with Howard is set for Oct. 3 at 3:00 PM in Washington, D.C., where Hampton leads the series. Following a successful recent history against Howard, the Pirates seek revenge after a loss in their last encounter. Season tickets for the 2026 season are currently on sale.

By the Numbers
  • Maryland finished the 2025 season with a 4-8 record.
  • Hampton leads the all-time series against Howard 55-44-1, having won 22 of the last 27 meetings.
Yes, But

Despite Hampton's strong historical performance against Howard, the loss in 2025 highlights the competitive nature of their rivalry. The Pirates' debut against a Power 4 opponent may present challenges, as Maryland seeks to improve after a disappointing season.

State of Play
  • The Pirates are preparing for their season opener against Virginia University-Lynchburg on Aug. 29.
  • Five home games are scheduled for the 2026 season, with kickoff times mostly set for 6 PM.
What's Next

Hampton will look to build momentum in the season opener before facing Maryland. Upcoming games, especially against Howard and conference rivals, will be crucial for establishing the team's competitive standing.

Bottom Line

Hampton's entrance into competition with Power 4 teams and their long-standing rivalry with Howard set the stage for a significant 2026 football season. Success will depend on their preparation and ability to leverage past strengths against both traditional rivals and higher-tier teams.