• Preseason Releases: Team Poll, Offensive Player Watch List, Defensive Player Watch List | Media Day Recap
The countdown to the start of the 2026 season will include a look at all eight OVC football teams with content from the OVC Football Media Day presented by
Shaw Sports Turf.
The 2026 season will mark the fourth-year under Head Coach Gabe Giardina as the team begins a 12-game schedule on Thursday, August 27 at fellow OVC foe Lindenwood.
Returning all-conference linebacker Steve Zayachkowsky has earned numerous preseason honors, including being named to the Buck Buchanan Award Watch List, being tabbed a Preseason All-American and being a nominee for the AFCA Good Works Team. Last season he led the League with 109 tackles.
BELOW VIDEOS
• Head Coach Gabe Giardina
• LB Steve Zayachkowsky
• LB Taivon Snipe
• "Get to Know" Steve Zayachkowsky