Kansas enters the season with a battle between Cole Ballard and Isaiah Marshall to replace Jalon Daniels. The coaching staff has not named a starter, and the opener against LIU may be used to evaluate both. Ballard has more experience as a backup, while Marshall offers a dual-threat element. The decision will shape the offensive identity and play-calling.

The transfer running back, a Kansas native, joins his third program and is expected to be a focal point of the offense. His versatility as a runner and receiver gives Andy Kotelnicki creative options. With depth at RB from Yasin Willis and Jalen Dupree, Kansas can keep Edwards fresh and use him in space.

Kansas struggled against the run and lacked turnovers in 2025. The addition of transfers like David Santiago (EDGE), Bam Crouch (LB), and Jibreel Al-Amin (LB) bolsters the front seven. The secondary also adds multiple transfers, including Corey Gordon and Jaden Harris, to increase depth and playmaking. This unit will be tested early against LIU's offense.

Kansas plays at home with a venue HFA of 2.8, a significant edge. The forecast calls for patchy rain and 26 mph wind, which could affect passing and kicking. Kansas's run-heavy approach with Edwards and a deep RB room may be well-suited to these conditions, while LIU may struggle with the elements.

Long Island University is an FCS program with no prior record or power rating. Kansas is heavily favored, but the team must execute cleanly to build momentum for a challenging upcoming schedule (Missouri, Arizona State). The opener is a chance to establish rhythm, especially for the new QB and offensive line.

Utah's offense replaces all five starters on the offensive line, making this unit the biggest question mark entering the season. Against an Idaho defense that may not be elite, the Utes must establish the run early to protect their new-look line and give quarterbacks Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin time to operate. Success here will set the tone for the entire season.

The Utes plan to use a 'tag-team' approach at quarterback with Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin. This game will be the first test of how effectively they can split reps and maintain rhythm. Idaho's defense may not be complex, but the rotation could disrupt timing with new receivers Braden Pegan and Kyri Shoels, making early-game execution critical.

Utah was the worst run defense in the Big 12 last season, a major weakness they addressed by adding Jireh Moe and Lucas Samsula via the portal. Against Idaho, the defensive line must show immediate improvement to validate those additions. A strong performance would boost confidence for the rest of the season, while struggles could signal lingering issues.

Utah enjoys a significant home-field advantage (3.1 HFA) and will play in partly cloudy, 42°F conditions with light wind. The cold weather may favor the Utes' physical run game and veteran defense, while potentially affecting Idaho's passing attack. Utah should leverage this environment to control the game tempo and force Idaho into uncomfortable situations.

Head coach Morgan Scalley and new coordinators Kevin McGiven (offense) and Colton Swan (defense) make their debut. The team has 18 new faces, so early-game execution and communication will be key. Idaho provides a manageable first opponent to test new schemes, but any missteps could create early-season doubt. A clean, disciplined performance is essential for building momentum.