College football kicks off 2026 season with key matchups
USA Today • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 8:56 AM
Last updated Aug 24, 2026
The 2026 college football season begins with an exciting slate of games. North Carolina faces TCU in a rematch of last year's opener, while Notre Dame will play at Lambeau Field. The schedule also includes the earliest-ever Apple Cup. These matchups promise to set the tone for the season ahead.
- •North Carolina plays TCU to start the season.
- •Notre Dame faces off at Lambeau Field.
- •The Apple Cup is scheduled earlier than usual.
- •The 2026 season starts strong with high-profile matchups.
- 8:56 AMUSA Today — College football's Week 0, Week 1 schedule gives us plenty to get excited about - USA Today
"Notre Dame at Lambeau. Bill Belichick and UNC in Dublin. The earliest Apple Cup. Those games and more top list of the best Week 0 and Week 1 games.
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