Week 0 College Football Preview: UNC, NC State, and More Set for Opening Games The college football season kicks off with a slate of "Week Zero" games on Saturday, Aug. 29, as teams across the nation prepare for their 2026 campaigns. While most FBS programs will begin their regular season a week later, the early matchups offer a glimpse into the competitive landscape and key developments for teams aiming to make noise in the upcoming season. Among the most anticipated games are North Carolina’s return to Dublin, Ireland, against TCU, NC State’s clash with Virginia, and several other matchups that highlight quarterback battles, coaching changes, and playoff aspirations. North Carolina’s season opener against TCU in Dublin marks the start of Year 2 under head coach Bill Belichick, who will be looking to improve on the Tar Heels’ 4-8 record from the previous year. The game carries added significance as TCU will be seeking revenge for a 48-14 blowout loss in the 2025 season opener. UNC has made significant changes to its quarterback room, with Billy Edwards Jr. named the starter after a transfer from Wisconsin. Edwards, who previously played at Maryland, will be tested against a TCU team led by Harvard transfer quarterback Jaden Craig. Craig, a pocket passer, will replace Josh Hoover, who left for Indiana. TCU’s hopes for a strong start depend on its ability to build momentum ahead of its Oct. 3 matchup against BYU. Elsewhere, San Jose State faces No. 14 USC in a Week Zero showdown. The Trojans, coming off a 9-4 season in their second year in the Big Ten, are still searching for their first College Football Playoff berth under head coach Lincoln Riley.#north_carolina #tcu #bill_belichick #jaden_craig #lincoln_riley
