The 2026 college football season will open for the Kansas Jayhawks on September 4, when they host LIU at their home stadium in Lawrence, Kansas.
Coach Lance Leipold has announced a three‑person battle for the starting quarterback role, featuring Cole Ballard, Isaiah Marshall and Chase Jenkins, each bringing a different skill set to the field.
Quarterback Battle Takes Shape
Early predictions favor Ballard to claim the top spot, but both Marshall and Jenkins are expected to play significant roles in the offense, providing depth and versatility that could prove decisive in conference play.
The Jayhawks are aiming to return to a bowl game after missing out in both 2024 and 2025, a goal that adds urgency to the preseason preparations and reflects the program’s desire to rebuild momentum.
Rivalry Renewed
A key story line is the prospect of ending a 17‑game winless streak against Kansas State, a rivalry that has eluded the program for years and could serve as a catalyst for a larger turnaround.
Analysts such as Collin Klein and Jordan Guskey have weighed in on the team’s prospects, noting that the defense and special teams could be decisive factors as the Jayhawks look to translate preseason optimism into on‑field success.