CHICAGO, IL, May 8, 2026 – The Chicago Football Classic announced today that Lincoln University (PA) will face Mississippi Valley State University on Saturday, September 12th with a 3:00 p.m. kickoff at Soldier Field for this year's annual game.

After a brief hiatus for the 2025 season, the Chicago Football Classic will return to Soldier Field this fall as part of its annual "More Than Just a Game" week, bringing the excitement and tradition of HBCU football and bands, scholarships, education initiatives and community programming to Chicago.

"Every year, this game brings together students, families, alumni and the entire Chicago community to celebrate HBCU culture and invest in the next generation," said Everett Rand, one of the Founders of the Chicago Football Classic. "We're proud to continue that tradition and welcome Lincoln University (PA) and Mississippi Valley State University to the city for this year's game."

Beyond the game, the Chicago Football Classic serves as a meaningful economic and community driver for the city. The event brings thousands of visitors to Chicago, generating increased activity for local hotels, restaurants and small businesses. The week also creates opportunities for local businesses to engage with attendees and the broader community.

Founded in 1997 by Chicago businessmen Everett Rand, Tim Rand, and Larry Huggins the Chicago Football Classic was created to encourage high school students to achieve their personal best in school and beyond, with a focus on increasing awareness of and enrollment at HBCUs. Through its scholarship fund and year-round initiatives, the organization has awarded over $1 million dollars in scholarships to local students since 2020 alone. 

In addition to the game, the Chicago Football Classic hosts an HBCU College Fair and Empowerment Summit, connecting more than 4,000 students with representatives from over 30 HBCUs, helping expand access to higher education and long-term opportunity.

"The Chicago Football Classic has always been about more than what happens on the field," Rand added. "It's about opening doors for students, celebrating the legacy and impact of HBCUs, and bringing our community together around education, culture and opportunity."

Ticket pricing for the Chicago Football Classic are $20, $30, and $45 now available at www.chicagofootballclassic.org.

For more information about the Chicago Football Classic, weekend events, sponsorship opportunities and scholarships, visit www.chicagofootballclassic.org.