DePauw Stories

One of the oldest rivalries in college football will experience a rare change of scenery when DePauw University meets Wabash College for the 2026 edition of the Monon Bell Classic. Due to significant construction in preparation for DePauw’s new Blackstock Stadium and Athletics Performance Center, the November 14 contest between the Tigers and Little Giants will now take place at Ball State’s Scheumann Stadium in Muncie, Ind. It is the first time since 1922 that the two teams will play their annual rivalry game outside Greencastle or Crawfordsville.

“The Monon Bell Classic has always been about more than a football game — it is a celebration of one of the greatest rivalries in college athletics and a tradition that brings together generations of DePauw and Wabash alumni, students, families and fans,” said Stevie Baker-Watson, associate vice president for student wellness and Theodore Katula Director of Athletics and Recreational Sports. “Although this year's setting will be different, the passion, pride and intensity that define this rivalry will remain unchanged. We are grateful to Ball State University for partnering with us to host this historic event at Scheumann Stadium, where we can provide an enhanced experience for both our student-athletes and fans. We cannot wait to welcome the DePauw and Wabash communities to Muncie to celebrate one of college football's most treasured traditions and create another memorable chapter in the Monon Bell story.”

Last October, DePauw announced an $80-million contribution from an anonymous alum to pave the way for a new best-in-class stadium and student-athlete performance center. The project reflects the university’s commitment to competitive excellence, student well-being and community engagement. Construction began in June with the demolition of the historic Blackstock Stadium, and the new Blackstock Stadium and Athletics Performance Center is scheduled to open in the fall of 2028.

Although DePauw is hosting its other four 2026 home games on a temporary setup at Nick Mourouzis Field, the crowd sizes of the Monon Bell game necessitated a larger venue to safely accommodate all fans. Scheumann Stadium’s 22,500-person capacity will provide ample space for both fan bases while allowing individuals who have been unable to secure tickets in the past to experience the game and all of its traditions. The primary football parking lots surrounding Scheumann Stadium will also be made available for gameday tailgating festivities.

Tickets for the 132nd Monon Bell Classic are currently scheduled to go on sale in September. To preserve the traditional environment, Scheumann Stadium will be strictly between both sets of fans. DePauw is the designated home team and will occupy the home side of the stadium, while Wabash will be the visiting team.

For those who cannot make the trip to Muncie, the game will also be broadcast live on the ISC Sports Network. Local alumni telecast viewing parties will be finalized and announced by October.

More information about ticket sales, premium seating, parking availability and other logistics will be shared in coming months.