The Monon Bell Classic, an annual football rivalry between DePauw University and Wabash College dating back to 1890, will move to a neutral site for the first time since 1922. The 132nd meeting, scheduled for November 14, 2026, will be held at Ball State’s Scheumann Stadium in Muncie, Indiana, because DePauw is currently demolishing its home stadium to construct the new $80 million Blackstock Stadium and Performance Center.
Why the Move to a Neutral Site Was Necessary
DePauw University’s decision to relocate the 2026 Monon Bell Classic stems from the ongoing construction of a 70,000-square-foot athletic facility. According to the university, the project—funded by a significant anonymous donation—required the demolition of the historic Blackstock Stadium, which began in June. While DePauw is utilizing a temporary setup at Nick Mourouzis Field for its other 2026 home games, those facilities lack the capacity to host the large crowds typical of the Monon Bell, according to university reporting.
Did you know?
The Monon Bell Classic has historically alternated between Greencastle and Crawfordsville. Moving to Muncie marks the first neutral-site game since 1922.
Managing Rivalry Traditions in a New Venue
Despite the change in venue, organizers intend to maintain the atmosphere of the long-standing rivalry. Scheumann Stadium, which seats about 22,500 people, provides significantly more capacity than the 3,000-seat stadium at DePauw or the 3,600-seat Little Giant Stadium at Wabash. To preserve the traditional environment, the schools have designated DePauw as the home team, with the university occupying the home side of the stadium, according to official statements from the institutions.
“The Monon Bell Classic has always been about more than a football game,” said Stevie Baker-Watson, associate vice president for student wellness and Theodore Katula athletic director at DePauw. She noted that the event serves as a celebration of a tradition that unites generations of alumni, students, and families.
Logistics and Fan Access for the 2026 Game
Fans planning to attend the matchup can expect standard game-day amenities, including access to the primary football parking lots at Scheumann Stadium for tailgating. Tickets for the November game are scheduled to go on sale in September. For those unable to attend in person, the game will be broadcast live via the ISC Sports Network. The university plans to release further details regarding premium seating, parking logistics, and local alumni viewing parties on the official DePauw Tigers athletics website.
Pro Tip:
Monitor the DePauw athletics website beginning in October for announcements regarding alumni telecast viewing parties if you cannot make the trip to Muncie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 2026 Monon Bell Classic not at DePauw?
DePauw is currently undergoing a renovation of its athletic facilities, which includes the demolition of its former stadium to make room for the new Blackstock Stadium and Performance Center. The current temporary facilities cannot safely accommodate the crowd size expected for the rivalry game.
When will the new Blackstock Stadium open?
Construction began in June, and the new facility is currently scheduled to open in the fall of 2028.
Where can I buy tickets for the game?
Tickets for the November 14, 2026, game will go on sale in September. Updates on ticket sales and logistics will be posted on the DePauw Tigers athletics portal.
Have you attended a Monon Bell Classic in the past? Share your favorite memories of this historic rivalry in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Indiana college sports.