Western Kentucky Hilltoppers 2026 Preview
Western Kentucky went 9-4 (6-2 in the Conference USA). Here is what changed on the roster, the full 2026 schedule, and where they rank going into the season.
What changed for Western Kentucky in 2026
- New offensive coordinator in Bodie Reeder (Middle Tennessee Offensive Coordinator and QB Coach) and defensive coordinator in Davis Merritt (Western Kentucky Co-Defensive Coordinator and ILB Coach)
- Starting QB from last season is gone, so backup QB Rodney Tisdale Jr. is expected to start (1,432 passing yards, 9 TDs, 7 INTs)
- Starting RB from last season is gone. Tulsa transfer Ajay Allen is expected to start (495 yards, 5 TDs)
- Top player in terms of receiving yards from last season is gone, with the top returner being K.D. Hutchinson (618 yards, 3 TDs)
- Returning one starting offensive lineman with four transfers expected to start
- Returning three starters on defense, with the top returner being S Jaylen Lewis (74 tackles, 3 INTs). Two transfers are expected to start FBS Independents
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Fact checking by Brady Kommes; cover art by Pace Maier.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers 2026 schedule
| Game | Opponent | Site |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nevada | Away |
| 2 | Georgia | Away |
| 3 | Indiana | Away |
| 4 | Mercyhurst | Home |
| 5 | New Mexico State | Away |
| 6 | Missouri State | Home |
| 7 | Sam Houston | Away |
| 8 | Delaware | Home |
| 9 | Middle Tennessee | Away |
| 10 | Jacksonville State | Home |
| 11 | Liberty | Away |
| 12 | Kennesaw State | Home |
Get the printable Western Kentucky Hilltoppers 2026 schedule with kickoff times and TV, sized for one page.
More Conference USA previews
Related reading
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers betting FAQ
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers play 12 games in 2026, 5 at home. They open against Nevada. The full schedule is listed on this page.
Western Kentucky is outside Kyle Kommes's preseason Top 25 for 2026.
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