Michigan is having discussions about kicking off the 2026 football season against Western Michigan in Germany. The school announced Friday on social media that it is seeking to play at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt on Aug. 29, 2026. It would be the first game the Wolverines would play outside of North America.

“This is worse than in-person scouting,” Cone said. Cone’s reaction reflects a growing concern among traditionalists who see international games as diluting the essence of college football. Michigan was originally scheduled to host Western Michigan on Sept. 5, 2026, at Michigan Stadium.