Opening Matchups You Can’t Miss During College Football’s Opening Weekend
The 2025 college football season is officially kicking off, and this year’s Week Zero slate is full of exciting matchups to get the season started with a bang. One of the most anticipated games is the Kansas State vs. Iowa State showdown, set to take place in Dublin, Ireland, as part of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic. Both teams are expected to be in the hunt for the Big 12 title, and this international game will set the stage for their respective seasons. Kansas State, coming off a solid 2024 campaign, will look to continue its strong defensive play, while Iowa State hopes to rebound and surprise some people with its offense. Nat’s Prediction: Kansas State wins 24-21, but Iowa State will put up a good fight in this neutral setting.
Next, fans should tune into Fresno State at Kansas, an intriguing matchup that could give us a glimpse into both teams’ potential playoff hopes. Fresno State enters the season with a balanced attack, and quarterback Mikey Keene will be the key to their success. Kansas, on the other hand, is looking to build on its strong 2024 season and continue its rise in the Big 12. With Kansas playing at home in David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, the Jayhawks will be looking to make a statement against the Bulldogs. Nat’s Prediction: Kansas wins 35-28, as the Jayhawks use home-field advantage to outlast Fresno State in a high-scoring affair.
Finally, Sam Houston at WKU promises to be an exciting under-the-radar game, showcasing two teams looking to make noise in their respective conferences. Sam Houston is a program on the rise, and their first test against WKU will be a critical one. The Hilltoppers, led by quarterback Maverick McIvor, are looking to be a contender in Conference USA, and a victory against Sam Houston would put them on the map early in the season. Nat’s Prediction: WKU wins 31-17, with McIvor leading the charge for the Hilltoppers as they establish their dominance in the second half. Opening weekend’s matchups provide plenty of excitement for college football fans to dive into. Whether you’re tuning in for the international action, the high-scoring games, or the underdog stories, Week Zero has something for everyone. Let the season begin!
