Fort Hays State football has garnered recognition in the AFCA Preseason Top 25 Poll, receiving votes for a third consecutive year. The Tigers ranked alongside several other programs in the MIAA, with fellow conference teams Pittsburg State and Northwest Missouri State starting in the top 10. FHSU received 13 voting points and will open the 2026 season against Angelo State, also among those receiving votes. Their first home game is set against CSU Pueblo, ranked No. 6 in the poll.

By the Numbers
  • FHSU received 13 voting points in the AFCA Preseason Poll.
  • CSU Pueblo is ranked No. 6 nationally, while FHSU defeated them last year when they were ranked No. 5.
State of Play
  • Pittsburg State is ranked No. 4 and Northwest Missouri State is No. 8.
  • Six of the 10 MIAA programs were mentioned in the preseason poll.
  • FHSU will face Angelo State in their season opener on August 27 in San Angelo, Texas.
What's Next

FHSU will aim to establish momentum in their season opener against Angelo State and secure a victory against a ranked CSU Pueblo team in their home game shortly after.

Bottom Line

The continuous recognition in the poll highlights FHSU's competitive edge within the MIAA, setting the stage for a promising 2026 season as they challenge ranked opponents.