The 2025 college football season kicked off on Saturday with an exhilarating Week 0, featuring a total of nine games. Among these, five clashes involved FBS teams, while four were between FCS opponents. The standout matchup of the day took place in Dublin, Ireland, where the No. 22 Iowa State Cyclones triumphed over No. 17 Kansas State with a score of 24-21. This victory marked a significant milestone for Iowa State as they embark on their journey toward a coveted Big 12 title.
As we eagerly await the first full week of college football, starting Thursday, this edition of The Weekender delves into the highlights and lowlights of Week 0. Additionally, we’ll explore some spirited college football rivalry antics in Northwest Ohio, focusing on Bowling Green's bold promotional efforts in enemy territory.
In a nail-biting finish, Iowa State clung to a three-point advantage with just 2:18 remaining on the clock. Instead of opting for a field goal to extend their lead, the Cyclones decided to go for it on 4th-and-3. Quarterback Rocco Becht executed a screen pass to Carson Hansen, who nearly secured a touchdown but was stopped at the 1-yard line. This strategic play allowed Iowa State to run down the clock and secure their victory. For those who placed bets on the over, this moment was undoubtedly one of the worst beats of Week 0.
Another standout performance came from Kansei Matsuzawa, a 26-year-old kicker from Japan, who delivered a stunning game-winning 38-yard field goal as time expired. Matsuzawa's efforts helped Hawai’i clinch a 23-20 victory over Stanford, where he completed a perfect 3-for-3 day. Meanwhile, Western Kentucky welcomed wide receiver transfer Matthew Henry, who made a memorable debut by catching seven passes for 148 yards, including a spectacular 26-yard over-the-shoulder touchdown grab in the Hilltoppers' 41-24 win against Sam Houston. Adding to the excitement, Western Kentucky punter Cole Maynard, son of former NFL punter Brad Maynard, impressed with a booming 71-yard punt.
The opening weekend also had its share of blunders. In a game that perfectly encapsulated the chaos of Week 0, Iowa State and Kansas State combined for four lost fumbles within the first 23 minutes, exacerbated by heavy rain during the first half. Following their loss, a bizarre incident unfolded in the parking lot as quarterback Avery Johnson’s father and brother found themselves in a physical altercation.
Stanford continued to struggle, suffering back-to-back losses against non-Power 4 opponents, following a disappointing 34-31 defeat to San Jose State last season. In a rare highlight, a Stanford running back scored a touchdown for the first time since 2023, a noteworthy achievement amid their ongoing struggles. Meanwhile, the FCS Kickoff game between UC Davis and Mercer was declared a no contest due to an extended weather delay, leaving both teams with over 53 minutes of play rendered meaningless.
Toledo, the heart of the Ohio State/Michigan rivalry, has also become a battleground for another FBS football rivalry. In a strategic marketing move, Bowling Green recently unveiled a new billboard on Dorr Street. This prominent display features a picture of new head coach Eddie George alongside the message, “Come See Coach Eddie George Falcon Football,” highlighted on an eye-catching orange background with the Bowling Green logo.
Bowling Green, located approximately 25 miles from the billboard, aimed to assert its presence in the area, which is traditionally dominated by the University of Toledo. Athletic director Derek van der Merwe emphasized, “This is our radius as much as it is Toledo's radius.” The billboard is seen as a direct response to the imposing 2,000-pound rocket outside the Glass Bowl, Toledo's home stadium, which is angled toward Bowling Green's own stadium.
Since taking the reins as head coach, Eddie George has fully embraced the Battle of I-75 rivalry, referring to Toledo as “the team up north” and highlighting the importance of this matchup as one of his primary goals for the season. George's first game at Bowling Green will take place on Thursday against Lafayette, with the highly anticipated Battle of I-75 scheduled for October 11.
In other college football news, we take a look at the top 20 players for Ohio State entering the 2025 season. Players such as Jeremiah Smith, Caleb Downs, Sonny Styles, Carnell Tate, and Max Klare lead this prestigious ranking. Additionally, a season preview of the Ohio State defense highlights how it will revolve around its standout safety, even if he may not frequently line up as one of the eleven on the field.
Lastly, Julian Sayin has officially been named Ohio State’s starting quarterback, a decision confirmed by head coach Ryan Day. Sayin’s consistency, decision-making skills, and ability to read defenses played a crucial role in securing this position, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
