There are eight FBS games and a stacked slate of FCS games today, so that means there’s A LOT going on.
It can be overwhelming, so we’re here to help you with the biggest storylines as we start the day. Of course, once games begin, we’ll see other games catch our eye.
1. What does UNC do with Bill Belichick Year 2?
UNC struggled in Belichick’s first season, getting drubbed by TCU by 34 points to start and slumping to a 4-8 (2-6 ACC) finish. He’ll need a rebound this year, but TCU sees itself as a Big 12 contender under Harvard transfer Jaden Craig at QB. But the Frogs will be without Jordan Dwyer in Ireland. Dwyer is the leading returning WR (54 catches, 730 yards) but is out with a foot injury.
2. Will the Aer Lingus Classic loser rally?
The Aer Lingus Classic has been played annually since 2022 at Aviva Stadium (there was also a 2016 game). The losers of the game have gone a combined 17-27 after losing in Ireland, including preseason top-10 Florida State in 2024 ending 2-10.
3. Welcome to the show
There are a handful of programs beginning new eras. North Dakota State, which won 10 FCS titles since 2011, is now in the FBS. The Bison host Jacksonville State in their first FBS game at 5:30 p.m. on CBSSN. Sacramento State is also moving from the FCS to FBS, with the Hornets at Eastern Michigan today at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN+. In the FCS, Chicago State plays its inaugural game against DII Roosevelt at 1 p.m.
4. New coaches
Marshall Faulk, former San Diego State star and one of the best running backs in NFL history, is a head coach for the first time as Southern plays Alabama State at 3 p.m. today on ESPNU in the Birmingham Football Classic at Legion Field. Florida A&M Quinn Gray opens his tenure at his alma mater against DII Albany State — his former program at 7 p.m.
5. Reigning champs
In 2025, Montana State completed a 14-2 season by winning its last 14 games and topping Illinois State 35-34 in a thrilling OT game to win the FCS national title. It was the Bobcats’ first title since 1984. But it’s a new season, and No. 1 Montana State opens on the road against Utah Tech at 10 p.m. tonight.