Week Zero delivered early-season drama across five games as college football finally returned to the field.
Iowa State opened with a hard-fought 24-21 victory over Kansas State after a tense second half. The matchup featured a sloppy start with four combined fumbles in the opening period, but the contest swung in the Cyclones’ favor late when Rocco Becht connected with Carson Hansen for a crucial fourth-down conversion, icing the win.
UNLV survived a scare in Dan Mullen’s home debut, edging Idaho State 38-31. The Rebels trailed in the second half before rallying, with Jai’Den Thomas powering the comeback by piling up 147 rushing yards and three touchdowns on just 10 carries.
Kansas looked every bit the part of a fast-starting, efficient offense as Jalon Daniels torched Fresno State. He completed 18 of 20 passes for 176 yards and three touchdowns and added 47 yards on the ground in a 31-7 win.
In the nightcap, Hawaii stunned Stanford 23-20, surviving early miscues and sealing the victory with a late field goal as time expired.
What to watch next and key takeaways:
– Standout performers: Rocco Becht showed poise in a tight finish, Jai’Den Thomas demonstrated explosive burst, and Jalon Daniels highlighted Kansas’ efficient and versatile quarterback play. Hawaii’s late-game resilience also stood out, signaling the potential for a scrappy, late-closing team.
– Early season takeaway: Week Zero provided a taste of varying styles and edge-of-your-seat finishes, suggesting a season rich with returns and close battles in the weeks ahead.
– Looking ahead: With foundational performances in place, teams will look to refine after-week adjustments, as the full schedule ramps up and conference play kicks into higher gear.
Overall, the opener delivered excitement, highlight-reel moments, and a hopeful spark for fans as teams begin to settle into their 2024 campaigns. Expect more of the same as the season unfolds.