Michigan fans were given kick-off times for the first three games of the season, signaling that college football is right around the corner. As the summer months roll in, before anyone knows it, fall camps will be in full swing and Week 1 will be on the doorstep.
The kick-off times for those three games, though, don't have fans too happy as the Wolverines will open the season against Western Michigan, then welcome Oklahoma, adn finish off non-conference play against UTEP.
Head coach Kyle Whittingham will begin his Michigan tenure against Western Michigan, and apparently, it will be under the lights. While night games are always a blast in the Big House, a night game against Western Michigan was not the ideal time for Wolverines fans.
Now, fans will have to wait all day to watch Michigan take on Western Michigan in a game that could be over by halftime. On top of that, Oklahoma will come to town for a Noon matchup the following week, again angering fans.
Thoughts on opening the season at night? https://t.co/pTaESjLfmS
— Brice Marich (@BriceMarich) May 27, 2026
A night game vs. Western Michigan has Wolverines fans up in arms
Well, the thoughts that fans have are not great, and it is something they felt the need to share.
They suck ass.
— Kb (@Kb22024) May 27, 2026
1.) late games are only cool if you are going to the game.
2.) Michigan always comes out flat in home night games. When was the last good game they played for a home night game? 2021 Washington?
3.) it’s Western.
Sure, a late game makes this feel like Michigan is important, which the Wolverines most certainly are, but the opponent just doesn't feel worthy of a true night game. Michigan also hasn't historically played very well in night games as of late.
The bill of goods we were all sold about night games at the Big House was that they would be special and rare. Now it's Western at night and Oklahoma at noon. I have no problem with noon kickoffs, but we need to save night games for special opponents.
— 〽️ark Williams (@Mark9957) May 27, 2026
Agreed, the Oklahoma matchup would have been electric in the Big House under the lights, but instead it will be under the big hot sun after limited time tailgating.
Playing this game at night and then playing the Oklahoma game at Noon🤦🏾
— Keenan Reeves (@KeeMan27) May 27, 2026
Make it make sense because, in all honesty, it just doesn't at this point. Oklahoma vs. Michigan is going to be a top game with the Sooners coming off a CFP appearance and Michigan with a new head coach at the helm, and a game under the lights should have been the reward for this game.
When we kickoff week 1 at noon in 21-23 it’s big 10 chips and a natty. When we kickoff week 1 at 7:30 since then it’s been underwhelming and disappointing. Not saying it holds any weight just a little conspiracy I’ve been building in my head.
— maizefan〽️〽️〽️ (@moneymuncher420) May 27, 2026
Definitely a bit of a conspiracy, but something to really look at. Granted, that is probably more because of coaching and players, but still something that can't be completely ignored. Maybe try a Noon game to start off the season and see if it rings true.
Against WMU? I don't like it.
— DC (@DonCar177) May 28, 2026
It's probably because it will be Kyle Whittingham's first game as Michigan's coach but I still don't like it.
Making Kyle Whittingham's first game at Michigan feel special makes a little more sense, but then give a more worthy opponent for a night game.
Stupid move. No one wants to wait all day to see us play WMU. Late night games should be reserved for big games.
— Brad Reno (@AcitynamedReno) May 27, 2026
At this point, fans will be chomping at the bit to watch Michigan football, and to have to wait for a night game to watch them play Western Michigan just feels a bit like a letdown at this point.
It is going to be Kyle Whittingham's first game with the Wolverines, so it will be special no matter what, and it should be a win for Michigan and the first for the new head coach.
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