College football is back! Week 0 offers a sneak peek at the 2025 season with four exciting games featuring Bowl Subdivision teams. This is more than just a prelude; these games count, with some having conference implications. Get ready for a taste of what’s to come before the full slate kicks off next week.
From ranked matchups in Ireland to stadium debuts and conference showdowns, Week 0 has a little something for every college football fan. Keep an eye on key players and team dynamics as the season gets underway. Here’s a breakdown of the games, times, and storylines to watch.
No. 20 Kansas State vs. No. 21 Iowa State
Time/TV: Noon ET, ESPN
The college football season commences with a ranked Big 12 battle in Dublin, Ireland. This matchup between Kansas State and Iowa State holds significant weight in the conference standings. Last season, Iowa State secured a 29-21 victory, propelling them to the conference title game. This year, both teams retain key offensive players, setting the stage for a compelling contest.
Iowa State’s quarterback, Rocco Becht, returns after a strong season with 3,505 passing yards and 25 touchdowns. Kansas State’s dual-threat quarterback, Avery Johnson, aims to improve his consistency, supported by wide receiver Jayce Brown and tight end Garrett Oakley. Defensively, Jeremiah Cooper leads Iowa State’s secondary, while Austin Romaine anchors Kansas State’s linebackers.
Why it could disappoint: Turnovers could hinder either team, potentially leading to a ground-and-pound game. However, expect a close contest due to strong pass defenses on both sides.
Fresno State at Kansas
Time/TV: 6:30 p.m. ET, Fox
Kansas opens its newly renovated David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium against Fresno State. This non-conference game presents a challenge for the Jayhawks, facing a Bulldogs team consistently competitive in the Mountain West. All eyes are on Kansas QB Jalon Daniels who aims to start strong after struggling early last season, where eight of his twelve interceptions occurred during a rocky 1-5 start. Now fully recovered from a shoulder injury, Daniels looks to showcase his talents and lead the Jayhawks to victory.
Fresno State introduces E.J. Warner, son of NFL Hall of Famer Kurt Warner, as their quarterback under new head coach Matt Entz. Warner, transferring from Rice, brings experience and a strong arm to the Bulldogs’ offense. The Jayhawks will need to contain Warner and pressure him into making mistakes to secure a win in their home opener. The Bulldogs’ defense is another key factor that the Jayhawks’ offense needs to prepare for.
Why it could disappoint: Both teams are integrating new players, potentially resulting in an unpolished performance. However, Kansas possesses a talent advantage that should eventually prevail.
Sam Houston at Western Kentucky
Time/TV: 7 p.m. ET, CBSSN
This Conference USA matchup could be among the most entertaining of Week 0. Sam Houston, transitioning successfully from FCS, aims to continue its winning ways under new head coach Phil Longo. Quarterback Hunter Watson returns after accounting for 21 touchdowns last season.
Western Kentucky, a perennial C-USA contender, looks to fill key vacancies from last year’s squad. Quarterback Maverick McIvor, transferring from Abilene Christian, is a notable addition. Last year, Western Kentucky defeated Sam Houston 31-14, so the Bearkats seek redemption in this encounter.
Why it could disappoint: Sam Houston needs to avoid falling behind early, as they did in last year’s game. If both offenses click, this could turn into a high-scoring affair.
Stanford at Hawaii
Time/TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, CBS
This game is crucial for both teams, as a bowl appearance is an uphill battle. Hawaii seeks to capitalize on the rare opportunity of hosting a Power Four conference member. Stanford, after a disappointing inaugural ACC campaign, aims for a fresh start under interim coach Frank Reich.
Stanford will rely on Oregon State transfer quarterback Ben Gulbranson to lead their retooled roster. Hawaii will give Micah Alejado the full-time quarterback role after strong performances at the end of last season. This game presents a valuable chance for Hawaii to showcase their talent against a Power Four opponent.
Why it could disappoint: There are numerous ways this game could go awry for either team. Viewers would benefit most from an early scoring showcase by both teams, but there will likely be several early miscues.
Week 0 of the college football season provides an early glimpse into the upcoming action. From ranked matchups in Ireland to renovated stadium debuts, these games offer a diverse range of storylines. Keep an eye on key players like Jalon Daniels and new quarterback acquisitions as teams begin their journey toward conference titles and playoff contention.
Whether you’re tuning in for the ranked showdown between Kansas State and Iowa State or watching Stanford’s fresh start against Hawaii, Week 0 promises excitement and intrigue. Get ready to kick off the season with these four compelling matchups!
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