The 2025 college football season officially kicks off with an exciting Week 0 slate of games spanning from Ireland to Hawaii, showcasing a diverse mix of matchups to ignite fan passion early. The headline event is the Aer Lingus College Football Classic held at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, where two ranked Big 12 teams, ,[object Object], State (No. 21) and ,[object Object], (No. 27), meet in what is dubbed the "Farmageddon" rivalry. This international contest is particularly notable as it is the first head-to-head meeting between AP top 25 teams since 2002. The game sets a high bar, with ,Kansas, State’s quarterback Avery Johnson adapting behind a new offensive line, and ,Iowa State,’s Rocco Becht looking to connect with his receivers on a largely returning core. Televised live on ESPN at noon ET, this game promises a thrilling start to the season.

Following the start in Ireland, the focus shifts back to the mainland United States with a mix of FCS and FBS matchups, including a notable primetime FBS contest between Fresno State and ,Kansas, at 6:30 p.m. ET on FOX. This game marks the Jayhawks' first taste of their renovated David Booth ,Kansas, Memorial Stadium, drawing sold-out crowds eager to see quarterback Jalon Daniels bounce back from a challenging previous season. Fresno State comes in with fresh leadership under coach Matt Entz and the skillful E.J. Warner at quarterback, adding an intriguing storyline as he carries the legacy of his father, NFL Hall of Famer Kurt Warner. The game offers a compelling contrast in team progress and venue excitement, making it a must-watch affair for college football fans.

Another compelling Week 0 contest occurs in Hawaii, with the ,[object Object], hosting ,[object Object], at 7:30 p.m. ET (1:30 p.m. local time). This game marks the debut of Frank Reich as ,Stanford,’s interim head coach after former coach Troy Taylor's departure. The game highlights Hawaii’s unique scheduling exemption to play during Week 0 due to its geographical location, a privilege granted to teams playing in the Aloha State. Hawaii’s colorful uniforms and picturesque setting add drama and visual appeal to the matchup. While ,Stanford, enters with hopes to revive the program under new leadership, Hawaii’s experience playing early-season games, including multiple byes throughout the season, provides strategic advantages. The game is broadcast on CBS and streamed via Paramount+, complementing the appealing backdrop of college football’s opening weekend.

In addition to these marquee matchups, several other engaging games fill out the Week 0 slate. Notably, the MEAC/SWAC Challenge airs in primetime on ABC at 7:30 p.m. ET, featuring North Carolina Central and Southern in a traditional rivalry with high entertainment and marching band performances. Also, seasoned Conference USA teams clash as Sam Houston visits Western Kentucky at 7 p.m. ET (CBSSN), a matchup that could evolve into an early conference feud. Smaller programs like Nicholls vs. UIW, UNLV vs. Idaho State, and Tarleton State vs. Portland State add depth to the day’s offerings. Together, these games form a rich tapestry of college football action before the traditional Labor Day weekend kickoff, providing a wide array of storylines and matchups to capture fan interest across multiple time zones.