WAUKESHA, Wis. – A new season begins Saturday for the Carroll University football team as the Pioneers travel to De Pere, Wisconsin, for a non-conference matchup against St. Norbert. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Donald J. Schneider Stadium.
The season opener features two programs looking to take the next step after similar campaigns in 2025. Carroll finished 4-6 overall and 4-5 in the CCIW, while St. Norbert posted a 5-5 record in the NACC. Both teams relied on balanced offensive attacks a season ago, setting up what should be an evenly matched battle to begin the year.
The Pioneers enter the season with optimism after a strong offseason and fall camp. Carroll returns several key leaders on both sides of the ball, including quarterback Elisha Nieves, running back Marcus Johnson, linebacker Evan Griffiths, cornerback Amarrion Bridges, defensive lineman August Johansen, and wide receiver Zach Johnson.
Saturday's matchup will test Carroll immediately against a St. Norbert team that averaged nearly 30 points per game last season and finished with a +8 turnover margin. The Green Knights forced 22 takeaways in 2025, making ball security and field position key areas to watch in the opener.
For the Pioneers, establishing balance offensively and creating disruption defensively will be points of emphasis. Carroll recorded 12 interceptions and 22 sacks last season while returning an experienced core that believes it can take a step forward in 2026.
Saturday will mark the first meeting between the programs since 2015, when St. Norbert earned a 21-14 victory in De Pere.
Game Information
- Opponent: St. Norbert
- Date: Saturday, Sept. 5
- Time: 1 p.m.
- Location: De Pere, Wis.
