A handful of college football teams will play this Saturday on a special date known as "Week Zero."
There are a few reasons why only a handful of teams play on this date.
Fi– One reason is that it allows teams to get an extra bye week during the season. This can be helpful for teams that have to travel long distances or play a tough schedule. – Another reason is that it allows teams to schedule a game against a high-profile opponent. This can be a way for a smaller school to get some national attention. – Finally, some teams simply choose to play on this date because they think it will give them a competitive advantage.
The "Week Zero" kickoff window was created in 2016.
The NCAA originally prohibited teams from playing before the Thursday before Labor Day in order to give students time to settle into their classes. However, the NCAA eventually realized that this rule was preventing teams from scheduling attractive non-conference games.
– Games between Hawaii and teams that visit Hawaii. Hawaii is allowed to play an extra game because of the cost of traveling to and from Honolulu. – Games between FCS teams that are nationally televised. This allows FCS teams to get some national exposure. – Games that are granted a waiver by the NCAA. The NCAA can grant a waiver to teams that have scheduling conflicts or other extenuating circumstances.
Navy vs. Notre Dame in Dublin, Ireland. This is the first time that Notre Dame has played a game outside of the United States Jackson State vs. South Carolina State in Atlanta. This is the first time that the MEAC/SWAC Challenge has been played in Atlanta San Jose State at Southern California. This is a matchup between two Pac-12 teams that are expected to be competitive this season
How can I watch the games?
What are the expectations for the teams playing on "Week Zero"?
There are a few risks associated with playing on "Week Zero." One risk is that teams may not be fully prepared for the game. Another risk is that players may be more likely to get injured because they are not yet in peak physical condition.
It is too early to say for sure whether "Week Zero" is here to stay. However, the NCAA has shown a willingness to expand the number of games that can be played on this date, so it is possible that we will see more "Week Zero" games in the future.