The Lindenwood football team is prepared ahead for their first home game as a part of the Ohio Valley Conference.

The Lions first announced the joining of the OVC back in Feb. and officially transitioned over in July.

Saturday, Oct. 1 at 1p.m. marks their first OVC home football game since joining the conference. The game will be played against Southeast Missouri State University.

Lindenwood’s first OVC game was Sept. 24 against University of Tennessee at Martin and resulted in a 26-56 loss away from home.

Lindenwood Football Head Coach Jed Stugart is determined to not let that affect how they go into the game versus SEMO.

“We know what to expect now. When we started, I don’t think we were as confident, we didn’t have confidence in ourselves. We were a little overwhelmed by the stage.” Stugart said. “When we scored our first touchdown we started realizing we can play with these guys. I do not think we will start that slow this weekend.”

The game versus SEMO will be their first OVC match of the season. Lindenwood has won 2 games and lost 1 in all competitions and SEMO has won 3 games and lost 1.

Stugart believes being at home advantage will provide the team with the extra motivation to perform at a top level.

“Our guys really enjoyed playing at home and they can feel the energy from the student section. We really fed off of that,” Stugart said.

Alongside the first home OVC game for Lindenwood, it is also their Hall of Fame Game where they will be inducting 7 into the athletics hall of fame. The Lions are expecting a large attendance of alumni, students, and rival fans.

SEMO Head Coach Tom Matukewicz is looking forward to Lindenwood’s first home conference match as well.

“We are just as excited for this game as Lindenwood is. There can only be one first time, we are literally making history together,” Matukewicz said. “I am thrilled that St. Louis has D1 football, and I look forward to building this rivalry together.”

The tailgate will begin Oct. 1 at 10 a.m. which will lead into the game at 1 p.m.