College football is set to return this week with the start of the 2025 season. The opening weekend, known as Week 0, features several notable matchups and storylines before the full schedule begins next week.
One of the key events will be the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin, Ireland, where No. 17 Kansas State faces No. 22 Iowa State at Aviva Stadium. This matchup continues a recent tradition of opening-week games in Dublin, drawing large crowds and international attention.
The rivalry between Kansas State and Iowa State is commonly called “Farmageddon.” This year’s game is referred to as “Irish Farmageddon” due to its location in Ireland. The two teams have a long history together, and both are considered contenders for the Big 12 title this season.
Another highlight includes Dan Mullen making his debut as UNLV’s head coach earlier than planned after a boxing event required the rescheduling of their matchup against Idaho State. Mullen returns to college coaching after five years away.
E.J. Warner, son of Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinee Kurt Warner, will make his first start as quarterback for Fresno State after previously playing for Temple and Rice. He leads a team under new head coach Matt Entz and enters his senior season ranked first in FBS in passing yards and passing yards per game.
Kurt Warner expressed pride in his son’s achievements by stating: “So proud of this young man… just keeps proving who he is! (…) 1 scholarship out of HS… no P5 school would give him a chance then or since… has had to EARN starting spot everywhere he’s been… and now heads into his senior season #1 in FBS in passing yards (8800+) & pass yrds/game…” The statement was posted on social media August 11 by Kurt Warner.
The Kansas Jayhawks will unveil their newly renovated David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium following a $450 million project during their home opener against Fresno State.
Other games featured include Western Kentucky hosting Sam Houston with quarterback Maverick McIvor leading what is described as a high-powered offense; North Carolina Central taking on Southern in Atlanta for the MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff; and Frank Reich beginning his tenure as Stanford’s interim head coach with an away game at Hawaii.
Week 0 provides fans with an early look at several programs before conference play fully begins across college football next week.
