When Does College Football Start in 2024?

The excitement from Michigan’s thrilling victory in last year’s College Football Playoff still lingers as fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season. The 2024 college football calendar is about to unfold, and it’s packed with early matchups and key dates that set the stage for another exhilarating run of games. So, when does college football start in 2024? This article will explore everything you need to know about college football season start.

Jaron Spor | MSN | The excitement from Michigan’s thrilling victory in last year’s College Football Playoff still lingers as fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season.

When Does College Football Start in 2024?

The action kicks off on Saturday, August 24, known as “Week Zero.” This special early start allows fans to get a jump on the season. The day features several notable games, including the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin, Ireland, where Florida State will face Georgia Tech. This game will air at noon ET on ESPN and is just one highlight of a day brimming with competitive play. Other matchups include McNeese at Tarleton State and Montana State at New Mexico.

Week 1: The Official Start

Though Week Zero offers a glimpse of the excitement to come, the momentum picks up during Week 1, starting on Thursday, August 29. North Carolina at Minnesota and North Dakota State at Colorado are among the standout games beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

@detroitnews | Instagram | College football kicks off on Saturday, August 24.

The energy carries over to the weekend with the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game between Clemson and Georgia on Saturday, August 31, at noon ET, hosted at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Full Swing of College Football

By the time Labor Day weekend arrives, college football is in full swing with a packed schedule that promises thrilling encounters. Every game adds to the season’s growing excitement, from high-stakes matchups like Miami (FL) at Florida to regional showdowns such as Notre Dame at Texas A&M.

The structure of the 2024 season also includes the expanded College Football Playoff format, introducing a 12-team playoff for the first time. This adjustment promises more intense competition and unexpected outcomes as more teams vie for the championship. The playoffs will start the week of December 21, marking a significant shift that fans should note.

@wsbradio | Instagram | The structure of the 2024 season also includes the expanded College Football Playoff format, introducing a 12-team playoff.

Early-Season Games

Beyond the opening weeks, the season offers many significant non-conference games. Key early-season games to circle on your calendar include Texas at Michigan and Arkansas at Oklahoma State on Saturday, September 7. These games promise great entertainment and influence early season rankings and team dynamics.

As autumn approaches and the college football season progresses, each game contributes uniquely to the fabric of college athletics. Whether you’re drawn to historic rivalries or enjoy watching top-ranked teams battle it out, the season is structured to offer continuous excitement and surprises.