College Football 2025-26 season kicks off with Dublin opener and streaming options explained
The 2025-26 NCAA football season opens Saturday, August 23, with the Iowa State Cyclones vs. Kansas State Wildcats matchup at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, kicking off at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT. The season features the nation’s top programs competing for a place in the College Football Playoff and the championship game later in the year.
Networks and where to watch
NCAA football games will be broadcast across a wide slate of networks, including ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, The CW, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, Fox, Fox Sports, NBC, SEC Network and truTV. This broad mix means games are accessible on both traditional broadcast and cable channels, as well as regional sports networks, giving fans multiple viewing options.
Streaming options for cord-cutters
For those without traditional cable, there are several ways to livestream NCAA football and watch for free through trial offers:
– DirecTV Stream: Includes access to major networks such as ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, The CW, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, Fox, Fox Sports, NBC, SEC Network and truTV. Plans start at $49.99 for the first month, then $84.99 per month, with a five-day free trial available.
– Fubo: Provides live access to local networks like ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC, plus a broad lineup of cable networks (including ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS Sports Network, The CW, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, Fox Sports, SEC Network, truTV, and more). Starts at $54.99 for the first month, then $84.99 per month, and offers a seven-day free trial.
Other notes
The season’s opener and many key games are positioned on the slate across the networks listed above, giving fans several ways to watch, whether at home or on the go. In addition to game coverage, college football events are known for lively atmospheres and celebrity appearances at games, with names such as Snoop Dogg, Kenny Chesney, Gucci Mane, Toby Keith, Adam Duritz, Katy Perry, Darius Rucker and others sometimes making appearances.
Key takeaways
– The 2025-26 season begins August 23 with a high-profile Dublin game and continues through the fall on a wide array of networks.
– Cord-cutters have accessible streaming options with free trials from DirecTV Stream and Fubo.
– Major networks carrying NCAA football ensure broad coverage across national and regional games.
Summary
Fans have ample choices to watch the season, whether through traditional TV networks or streaming services with trial periods. The Dublin opener highlights the global reach of college football, and the schedule promises a fall filled with competitive matchups as teams chase a path to the playoff and championship.
Positive note
With flexible viewing options and several free trial opportunities, more fans than ever can follow their favorite teams and enjoy a full season of college football action.