Lightning Delays Ball State-Buffalo Kickoff

Lightning within eight miles of Scheumann Stadium halted the MAC matchup before the scheduled 7:35 p.m. ET kickoff.

Updated on Nov. 12, 2026 in Football

Lightning Delays Ball State-Buffalo Kickoff

The Buffalo versus Ball State Mid-American Conference football game was delayed about 25 minutes before kickoff after lightning was detected near Scheumann Stadium in Muncie. Teams plan to kick off at 7:45 p.m. ET, subject to further lightning delays.

Why it matters

Under NCAA rules, lightning detected in the area requires a 30-minute delay, and that timer resets with each new strike, so the start time remains uncertain. The stoppage affects both teams' conference standings as they compete in the MAC.

Lightning was detected within an eight-mile radius of Scheumann Stadium, and NCAA rules require a 30-minute delay that resets with each new strike. Buffalo stands at 6-3 overall and 4-1 in the MAC, while Ball State is 3-6 overall and 2-3 in conference play.

The players

Buffalo Bulls

The University at Buffalo's football program, competing in the Mid-American Conference, with Pete Lembo serving as head coach.

Ball State Cardinals

The football program of Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, competing in the Mid-American Conference.

The details

The delay began at 7:10 p.m. ET, before the planned kickoff, and officials are monitoring for additional lightning. Ball State is coming off an overtime loss at UMass the previous week, and this game marks Pete Lembo's first return trip to Muncie as Buffalo head coach.

Nov. 11, 7:10 p.m. ET: Lightning delay began.
Nov. 11, 7:35 p.m. ET: Originally planned kickoff.
Nov. 11, 7:45 p.m. ET: Revised planned kickoff, subject to further delays.

Season Trajectory

Buffalo's 4-1 MAC record positions it among the conference leaders, while Ball State's 2-3 mark leaves it fighting for postseason position. Each conference game carries weight in the race for the MAC standings as the regular season nears its end.

The 30-minute NCAA lightning rule resets with each new strike, so fans and fantasy managers should monitor the start time closely. Buffalo's 4-1 conference record and Ball State's 2-3 mark both shape how this result affects MAC standings.

The takeaway

Weather delays in college football are governed by fixed rules, so fans should expect start times to shift as storms move through. Check official game updates before traveling to the stadium.