QUICK SUMMARY
Alabama football is back. The Crimson Tide opens the 2026 season on Saturday, September 5 against East Carolina at Bryant-Denny Stadium, with kickoff at 11 a.m. CT on ABC. Tuscaloosa gets seven home games this fall, including Florida State, Georgia, Texas A&M and the Iron Bowl against Auburn on November 28. The team wrapped up fall camp this week, so game weekends – and the crowds, energy and business they bring – start in just over a week.
When does Alabama football start in 2026?
The wait is almost over. Alabama held its final practice of fall camp on Thursday morning, and the 2026 season kicks off Saturday, September 5, when East Carolina comes to Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. CT, and the game will air on ABC.
Fun fact: this is only the second time Alabama and East Carolina have ever played, and the first meeting in Tuscaloosa. The Tide won the first matchup 23-22 at Legion Field in Birmingham back in 1998.
Which games are in Tuscaloosa this fall?
Tuscaloosa gets seven home games in 2026 – the most fans can hope for in a regular season. Here is the full home slate:
September 5 – East Carolina. The season opener and the first Pirates visit to Tuscaloosa ever.
September 19 – Florida State. The Seminoles play in Tuscaloosa for the first time since 1974.
September 26 – South Carolina. SEC play comes to Bryant-Denny early this year.
October 10 – Georgia. The Bulldogs return for the first time since the 41-34 Alabama thriller in 2024.
October 24 – Texas A&M. Another marquee SEC matchup under the lights of fall.
November 21 – Chattanooga. Senior Day festivities before rivalry week.
November 28 – The Iron Bowl vs. Auburn. Alabama has not lost to Auburn at home since 2010.
Road trips this year include Kentucky, Mississippi State, Tennessee, LSU and Vanderbilt. You can see the full schedule anytime at RollTide.com.
Thinking about a game-day condo or a move to Tuscaloosa before the season heats up? Call or text The Williams Group at 205-292-2108 or start with our Tuscaloosa community guide.
What do game weekends mean for Tuscaloosa?
If you live here, you already know: game weekends change everything. Bryant-Denny Stadium holds more than 100,000 fans, and on big weekends the crowd pouring into town can rival the city’s own population. Hotels fill up months in advance. Restaurants on the Strip and downtown see some of their biggest days of the year. Traffic on McFarland Boulevard and University Boulevard slows to a crawl for a few hours before and after kickoff.
It is a big part of why Tuscaloosa was just named the No. 2 college sports town in America – you can read more about that ranking in our recent post on why Tuscaloosa ranks among the best college sports towns.
A few simple tips for locals: plan grocery runs for Friday, expect road closures around campus on Saturday, and give yourself extra time near the stadium from mid-morning until well after the final whistle – especially for the 11 a.m. opener.
How does football season affect the housing market?
Football drives real demand for real estate here. Every fall we hear from three kinds of buyers. First, parents of UA students who would rather buy a condo than pay rent for four years – our parent condo guide breaks down how that works. Second, alumni and fans who want a game-day place they can enjoy seven weekends a year and rent out the rest. Third, families relocating to West Alabama who fall in love with the town on a football visit – if that is you, start with our relocating to Alabama guide.
With seven home dates this season, including Florida State, Georgia and the Iron Bowl, expect strong interest in condos and homes close to campus all fall.
Curious what your Tuscaloosa or Northport home is worth heading into the season? Get a free home valuation or call 205-292-2108.
Frequently asked questions
What time and channel is the Alabama season opener?
Alabama hosts East Carolina on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. Kickoff is 11 a.m. Central, and the game airs nationally on ABC.
When is the 2026 Iron Bowl?
The Iron Bowl is Saturday, November 28, 2026 in Tuscaloosa. Alabama has won seven straight against Auburn at Bryant-Denny, a streak that goes back to 2010.
When did Florida State last play in Tuscaloosa?
The September 19 game is Florida State’s first trip to Tuscaloosa since 1974. It closes out the home-and-home series between the two schools.
How many home games does Alabama have in 2026?
Seven. East Carolina, Florida State, South Carolina, Georgia, Texas A&M, Chattanooga and Auburn all come to Bryant-Denny Stadium this season.
How big are game-day crowds in Tuscaloosa?
Bryant-Denny Stadium seats more than 100,000 fans, and many more come to town to tailgate without tickets. Hotels, restaurants and short-term rentals see their busiest weekends of the year.
Want a home base for football season?
From game-day condos near campus to family homes in Northport, our local team knows this market street by street. No pressure – just straight answers.
Call or Text 205-292-2108Get a Free Home Valuation
Follow The Williams Group
Daily market updates, new listings, open houses and life around West Alabama & Greater Birmingham:
FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
See why neighbors trust us on our reviews page · West Alabama 205-292-2108 · Greater Birmingham 205-292-7142