Columbia 36, Mater Dei 28

Columbia opened its season with a 36-28 victory against Mater Dei in Breese, Illinois, on Friday, August 21, 2026. Jackson Lawal transitioned back to the RB position, scoring three TDs to help Columbia secure the win. Lawal expressed that playing as a running back is his favorite role. The event also featured Bravo, the Mater Dei therapy dog, as Columbia successfully held off Mater Dei to claim the opening game of the season.