The anticipation surrounding the start of the college football season is a ritual cherished by millions of fans across the United States. This event marks the end of the summer and the dawn of a new season filled with rivalries, traditions, and athletic accomplishments. Determining when the college football season begins can depend on various factors including the specific conference, division, and year.
Typically, the college football season commences at the end of August or the beginning of September. This timing coincides with the end of the summer break for most universities, and aligns with the academic calendar as students return to campus. The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association), which regulates the sport, usually releases the official schedule months in advance, giving fans ample time to prepare.
The first games are often referred to as “Week Zero,” featuring a handful of matchups that precede the main kickoff week, “Week One.” These early games are often spotlighted on national television, drawing high viewership and giving teams an opportunity to gauge their readiness before facing more substantial competition. While “Week Zero” games are a more recent trend, they have quickly become a notable feature of the college football landscape.
One reason for the variability in start dates is the different levels within the NCAA structure.