Ball State to Host Sacramento State on October 24
The Cardinals welcome the Hornets to Scheumann Stadium for a Saturday college football matchup.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Would you attend a local college football game if your team had a losing record?
Ball State faces Sacramento State on October 24 at Scheumann Stadium in Muncie. The Cardinals enter the game following a 32-31 overtime victory against Bowling Green.
Why it matters
Ball State looks to improve upon its 2-5 overall record while Sacramento State seeks to recover from a difficult 1-6 start to the season. The matchup offers both teams a chance to shift their momentum as the conference season progresses.
Ball State quarterback Keldric Luster has tallied 1,066 passing yards and seven touchdowns this season. The Cardinals defense has allowed 30 or more points in five of their seven games.
The players
Keldric Luster
He is the starting quarterback for Ball State who has recorded 1,066 passing yards and seven touchdowns this season.
Jackson Sharman
He is a quarterback for Sacramento State who completed 11 of 21 passes for 69 yards and one interception in the team's most recent game.
Brian Salazar Jr.
He is a quarterback for Sacramento State who contributed 71 passing yards and one touchdown in their previous contest.
The details
Sacramento State aims to improve discipline after committing 12 penalties for 130 yards in their previous loss to Ohio. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
Timeline
Sacramento State plays Ball State at 12:30 p.m. PT on October 24, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This game serves as a critical junction for Ball State as they attempt to build upon the momentum of their 32-31 overtime win against Bowling Green. A win would help stabilize their standing within the conference following a 1-2 start to league play.
Fans can watch the game through the ESPN+ broadcast platform. Ball State supporters should monitor whether the defense can avoid giving up 30 or more points, a trend that has occurred in five of the team's seven games this season.
The takeaway
Both teams are looking to refine their performance after navigating challenging stretches to open the season. Success for the visitors will likely depend on reducing the high penalty counts seen in their most recent outings.
Further reading
Get more updates on upcoming games and league standings in our Football section.
Live Poll
Would you attend a local college football game if your team had a losing record?
