The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers have added the Mercyhurst Lakers to their 2026 football schedule, as learned by FBSchedules.com.
A copy of the football game contract with Mercyhurst University was obtained from Western Kentucky University via a state public records request.
Western Kentucky will host Mercyhurst at Houchens Industries–L. Smith Stadium at Jimmy Feix Field in Bowling Green, Ky., on a Saturday in September 2026.
The Hilltoppers will pay the Lakers a $325,000 guarantee for playing the game, according to the contract.
Mercyhurst is a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC) in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), having moved up from Division II in 2024.
Currently, the Lakers are 3-6 overall and 2-2 in conference play this season.
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Author's summary: Western Kentucky adds Mercyhurst to 2026 schedule.