Your Complete Guide to the Arkansas State Football Schedule and Key Matchups

As I sit down to analyze the Arkansas State football schedule this year, I can’t help but feel that familiar mix of anticipation and nerves. For over a decade, I’ve followed this team through highs and lows, and each season brings its own unique rhythm. This year’s lineup is no exception—packed with opportunities and challenges that could define the Red Wolves’ trajectory. But before we dive into those key matchups, let me draw a quick parallel to something else happening in the sports world that might surprise you. Did you know that the Asian Tour is kicking off its own season with an inaugural International Series event in October, featuring some of the LIV Tour’s top golfers? It’s fascinating how different sports align their calendars to capture audience attention, and in many ways, Arkansas State’s schedule does the same—strategically positioning high-stakes games to maximize exposure and momentum.

Let’s start with the non-conference slate, which I believe is both a blessing and a curse. The opener against Memphis on September 2nd is one I’ve circled in red. Memphis isn’t just any opponent—they’re a regional rival, and facing them early sets the tone for the entire season. From my perspective, this game is Arkansas State’s best chance to make a statement. Last year, the Red Wolves struggled with turnovers in similar matchups, but if they can control the clock and limit mistakes, I’m predicting a tight 31–28 win. Then there’s the trip to Oklahoma on September 9th. Look, I’ll be honest—this one’s a long shot. Oklahoma’s offense is explosive, and Arkansas State’s secondary will be tested like never before. But as someone who’s watched this team pull off upsets before, I wouldn’t completely rule out a competitive first half if the defensive line can generate pressure early.

Moving into October, the schedule shifts toward Sun Belt Conference play, and this is where things get really interesting for me. The October 14th showdown with Coastal Carolina stands out as a potential season-definer. Last season, the Chanticleers edged out a 3-point victory in a game that came down to special teams. This time, with home-field advantage, I’m leaning toward Arkansas State flipping the script. Another matchup I’m personally excited about is the November 4th game against South Alabama. Why? Because it’s sandwiched between two tough road trips, and how the team manages fatigue here could reveal a lot about their depth. I’ve always believed mid-season games like this separate contenders from pretenders.

Now, let’s talk about that November 18th clash with Troy. If you’ve followed my analyses over the years, you know I have a soft spot for rivalry games, and this one’s no different. Troy has been a thorn in Arkansas State’s side lately, winning three of the last five meetings. But with key players returning from injury, I’m optimistic the Red Wolves can close that gap. Statistically, Arkansas State has averaged 28 points per game against Troy since 2018, but defensively, they’ve allowed 34. Those numbers need to improve, and I think they will—maybe not drastically, but enough to keep it competitive into the fourth quarter.

Wrapping up, the regular season finale against Texas State on November 25th could carry playoff implications, depending on how the previous weeks unfold. From my seat, this feels like a must-win if Arkansas State wants to secure a bowl bid. I’ve seen this team finish strong before—like in 2019, when they won four of their last five—and I’m betting on that resilience showing up again. All in all, this schedule balances tough tests with winnable games, and if the Red Wolves can steal a couple of early victories, we might be looking at a memorable season. Just like the Asian Tour’s new event in October aims to tee off with a bang, Arkansas State’s schedule sets the stage for drama, and I, for one, can’t wait to watch it unfold.