Iowa, Arizona State, Iowa State Prepare For Key Season Openers

In college football, several key games highlight the 2025 season's early matchups between Power Five and FCS programs. The Iowa Hawkeyes, a strong Big Ten team known for their defense under coach Kirk Ferentz, face the Albany Great Danes, an improving FCS team from the Colonial Athletic Association aiming to prove themselves against bigger programs. Similarly, Arizona State Sun Devils, under coach Kenny Dillingham in his third year, are heavy favorites in their game against in-state FCS opponent Northern Arizona, with standout players like Jordyn Tyson expected to exploit the mismatch. The Sun Devils' defense, led by Brian Ward, aims to showcase its run-stopping prowess against NAU’s ground game. Meanwhile, Iowa State Cyclones open their home season against South Dakota Coyotes, marking a historic series renewal; both teams had strong 2024 campaigns, with Iowa State ranked 22nd and coming off a notable victory over Kansas State. These games provide early tests for Power Five teams as they prepare for their respective conference schedules and seek to assert dominance over FCS opponents.