ODU prepares for September 5 opener against Norfolk State

Old Dominion will open the 2026 season against Norfolk State on September 5 in an in-state rivalry matchup. Norfolk State enters after a 56-0 victory, and Michael Vick has offered an assessment; ODU also lacks current-game film on the Spartans. The Monarchs will wear camouflage uniforms honoring Lt. Col. Brandon A. Shah, with game-worn jerseys supporting his family; ESPN+ availability and game-day details are confirmed, but no new football insight has emerged.