Iowa, Albany Prepare for First-Ever Season Opener Clash

As the 2025 college football season kicks off, the Iowa Hawkeyes prepare for their home opener against Albany, marking the first-ever meeting between the two programs. Despite uncertainties surrounding Albany's new interim head coach Jared Ambrose and some roster changes, Iowa benefits from coaching staff consistency and prior knowledge of Albany's schemes, with head coach Kirk Ferentz expecting a relatively stable offensive approach. Iowa returns a strong core with 13 starters and notable players like transfer quarterback Mark Gronowski and specialists Rhys Dakin and Kaden Wetjen, aiming to improve on last season's offensive performance under coordinator Tim Lester. Meanwhile, other Big Ten teams like Illinois and Oregon State are also favored in their season openers, with Illinois expected to comfortably defeat FCS opponent Western Illinois and Oregon State narrowly favored against California, reflecting reshaped rosters and strategic betting odds. The season's opening games highlight a mix of experienced leadership and fresh challenges across college football programs.