The countdown to football season has officially begun.
Bexley takes the field for the first time on Friday, August 7, when the Lions travel to Bishop Hartley for a tri-scrimmage. The team then returns to Carlton Smith Stadium on Thursday, August 13, for its final preseason test against Utica.
Eight days later, the lights come on and the games begin.
Bexley opens the 2026 varsity season at home on Friday, August 21, against Linden-McKinley. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. at Carlton Smith Stadium.
Ten Games. One Full Fall of Football.
The varsity Lions will play ten regular-season games between August 21 and October 23, including four at home:
- Friday, August 21: Linden-McKinley
- Thursday, September 10: Grandview Heights
- Friday, October 2: Whitehall-Yearling
- Friday, October 9: Bishop Ready — Homecoming and Senior Night
The October 9 matchup will be one of the biggest nights of the season as students, families, alumni and the Bexley community come together for Homecoming and to recognize the program’s senior players.
With only four regular-season home games, every night at Carlton Smith Stadium will matter. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, fill the stands and give the Lions a true home-field advantage.
Saturday Mornings Belong to JV
The junior varsity team also has a home-heavy schedule this fall, with seven of its nine games at Carlton Smith Stadium.
Most JV games will be played at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, giving fans another chance to watch Bexley football the morning after the varsity game.
One game breaks from the usual schedule: Bexley will host Bishop Hartley on Monday, September 14, at 6:00 p.m.
JV games are a great way to follow the younger players in the high school program and get an early look at athletes who will soon be taking the field under the Friday night lights.
Make Your Plans Now
The complete varsity and JV schedules — including every date, opponent, location and kickoff time — are available on the Bexley football schedule page.
Save the dates, share the schedule and start planning your fall around Bexley football.
Game recaps, photos and program updates will be published throughout the season.
The first scrimmage is August 7. The home opener is August 21.
Bexley football is almost here. See you at Carlton Smith Stadium.
Behind every season
The Gridiron Club funds Bexley football, grades 3–12 — and membership is how.
Join the Club
