Eastern Illinois Panthers Football Tickets

You’ve got a guy in the know for Eastern Illinois Panthers football. Since first fielding a team in 1899, EIU has built a proud football tradition in NCAA Division I FCS as part of the OVC–Big South Football Association. Home games are played at O'Brien Field in Charleston, Illinois, a venue with a rich history and a capacity of about 10,000 fans. From national prominence in the late 20th century to producing Pro Football Hall of Famers, EIU Panthers football offers a compelling season for fans and visitors alike. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to the program, we’re your trusted source to secure your seats for upcoming games and experiences.

Below you’ll find an overview of the program, key milestones, notable alumni, and the 2025 schedule—plus how to watch games via ESPN+. We keep things straightforward: no fuss, just reliable access to great football.

History and highlights: EIU Panthers football began in 1899 and rose to national prominence as a Division II national champion in 1978. The program has claimed multiple conference titles in the OVC, including championship years 2001, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2012, and 2013. Today, the Panthers compete in the NCAA Division I FCS within the OVC–Big South Football Association, continuing a strong tradition of competitive play and player development.

Home venue: O'Brien Field in Charleston, IL, has hosted EIU football since 1970 and seats roughly 10,000 fans. The stadium provides a classic college football atmosphere, perfect for family outings and dedicated Panthers supporters alike.

Notable alumni: Tony Romo (Walter Payton Award 2002; College Football Hall of Fame 2021) and Jimmy Garoppolo (Walter Payton Award 2013) are among EIU’s standout graduates who went on to reach the top levels of professional football.

2025 schedule: The Panthers’ 2025 football slate features 12 games, with multiple home games at O'Brien Field. All EIU home games are streamed on ESPN+. To plan your attendance, keep an eye on the official EIU Panthers channels for updates on date confirmations and any schedule changes.