Week 0: A Global Kick‑off
The 2026 college football season will officially begin on Saturday, August 29, when eight games air across a handful of networks, setting the stage for a sprawling opening week that stretches into early September.
Among the marquee contests, the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin will feature North Carolina taking on TCU. The game will be televised by ESPN and streamed on Disney+, with veteran play‑by‑play announcer Mike Monaco, analyst Jordan Rodgers and reporter Dana Boyle handling the broadcast. Adding to the intrigue, Bill Belichick is slated to be involved in the event's production.
The broadcast slate also includes San José State versus No. 14 USC on NBC and Peacock, where Noah Eagle will call the play alongside former quarterback Todd Blackledge and analyst Kathryn Tappen. NC State will host Virginia on ESPN with Wes Durham, Max Browne and Madison Fitzpatrick completing the commentary team.
Other notable pairings see Jacksonville State facing North Dakota State on CBS Sports Network, with Rich Waltz, Adam Breneman and analyst Brian Kelly — who is making his debut as a color commentator — on the call. Additional games on ESPN+, the ACC Network, The CW and Fox will showcase a diverse array of talent, including Mick Tidrow, Je’Rod Cherry, Jorge Sedano, Rodney McLeod, Kendra Douglas, Thom Brennaman and Jason Cabinda.
Week 1 will expand the schedule from Thursday, September 3, through Monday, September 7, giving fans a full week of matchups before the regular season fully ramps up.