Quick Read
- Kansas State and Iowa State face off in Dublin, Ireland, for an international Week 0 game.
- Kansas Jayhawks will clash with Fresno State Bulldogs in a high-scoring contest.
- Week 0 offers early momentum for teams and players to make a national statement.
The 2025 college football season officially kicks off with Week 0, and fans around the world are gearing up for an exciting slate of games. Highlighting the opening weekend are two marquee matchups: Kansas State vs. Iowa State at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, and Fresno State vs. Kansas Jayhawks in a classic American showdown. These games set the stage for what promises to be another thrilling season of college football.
Kansas State vs. Iowa State: A Clash in Dublin
Kansas State and Iowa State, two Big 12 powerhouses, will face off in a unique international setting at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on Saturday, August 23. The game begins at noon ET and will air on ESPN. This marks a continuation of college football’s efforts to globalize the sport, bringing a bowl-like atmosphere to the regular season.
Last season, Kansas State finished strong, bolstered by the dual-threat abilities of quarterback Avery Johnson. However, the Wildcats enter this season with significant changes, including the loss of their standout running back DJ Giddens and key offensive linemen. Their offensive coordinator, Conor Riley, has also moved on to the NFL, leaving Matt Wells to step into the role. Despite these changes, Johnson remains a dynamic playmaker and a dark horse candidate for the Heisman Trophy, as noted by Lineups.
Iowa State, meanwhile, faces its own challenges. The Cyclones lost two 1,000-yard receivers, Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, both of whom were drafted into the NFL. Quarterback Rocco Becht, known for his clutch performances, will need to adapt to a new supporting cast. According to Lineups, Iowa State’s defensive scheme, a 3-3-3 stack, could pose problems for Kansas State’s offensive line but may struggle against the run game.
Both teams have vulnerabilities, but the Wildcats’ experience and Johnson’s explosiveness give them a slight edge. Early betting lines favor Kansas State by three points, making this a must-watch game for fans and bettors alike.
Fresno State vs. Kansas Jayhawks: Offense vs. Defense
Later on Saturday, at 6:30 p.m. ET, the Kansas Jayhawks will take on the Fresno State Bulldogs in another highly anticipated Week 0 matchup. Kansas, known for its high-powered offense, averaged 420.8 yards per game last season, ranking 36th in the FBS. However, their defense struggled, allowing nearly 394 yards per game, as reported by College Sports Wire.
Fresno State brings a balanced approach to the game, having averaged 26.1 points per game on offense while allowing 24.8 points per game on defense last season. This ranks them 81st and 65th in the FBS, respectively. The Bulldogs will need to step up on both sides of the ball to counter the Jayhawks’ explosive offense.
This game will serve as an early litmus test for both teams. Kansas will aim to prove its defense has improved over the offseason, while Fresno State will look to establish itself as a contender in the Mountain West Conference. With both teams bringing contrasting strengths to the field, fans can expect a highly tactical and entertaining game.
Why Week 0 Matters
Week 0 games hold a special significance in the college football calendar. They provide teams with an opportunity to gain early momentum and make a statement before the season fully ramps up. For players like Avery Johnson and Rocco Becht, these games are a chance to showcase their skills on a national stage and set the tone for the rest of the season.
Additionally, the international component of the Kansas State vs. Iowa State game highlights the sport’s growing global appeal. By bringing college football to Dublin, organizers aim to engage new audiences and expand the reach of the game beyond its traditional fan base.
For fans, Week 0 is the perfect appetizer for the feast that is the college football season. With high-stakes matchups and compelling storylines, it’s a reminder of why this sport holds such a special place in American culture.
As the first whistle blows and the 2025 season begins, all eyes will be on the players, coaches, and fans who make college football a spectacle like no other.