Illinois, Missouri to resume football with 4-game series

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The Illini and Mizzou are resuming their matchups on the gridiron, announcing a four-game football series starting in 2026.

The University of Illinois and University of Missouri made the announcement Monday. Illinois will host in 2026 and 2028 in Champaign, Illinois, and Missouri will host in 2027 and 2029 in Columbia, Missouri.

The teams previously have met 24 times. The Tigers hold a 17-7 edge on the Illini. They most recently played in 2010 in St. Louis where Missouri won 23-13.

Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman says playing a Southeastern Conference opponent and geographic rival “will be exciting for our players, coaches and fans.” Illini coach Lovie Smith calls the series a “natural fit” because the schools are in border states and already have the Braggin’ Rights series in basketball.