Baylor enters the season with a completely revamped offense, headlined by former 5-star QB DJ Lagway. He will be throwing to a receiving corps that lost its top four targets from last year, with Louis Brown IV, Jadon Porter, and Dre'lon Miller expected to step up. The offensive line also features four new starters, so cohesion and protection will be critical against Auburn's defense.

First-year DC Joe Klanderman has installed an attacking, havoc-creating defense, a stark contrast to last year's passive approach. The Bears added several transfer pass rushers (Hosea Wheeler, Jamaal Whyce Jr., Ryan Davis, Garrick Ponder) to generate pressure. However, consistency remains a concern, as last year's defense was prone to giving up big runs.

This game is played in a dome with zero home-field advantage for either team. Travel is roughly equal (756 miles for Baylor), so the environment should not be a significant factor. The indoor setting favors passing attacks, which could benefit Lagway and Baylor's new-look offense.

Baylor returns elite punter Palmer Williams, but kicker Rhett Armstrong has never attempted a field goal in a college game. In a potentially close contest, field goal reliability could be a deciding factor. The return game is also unsettled, adding another variable.

Aranda is coaching for his job in 2026 after a 36-37 record through six seasons. The team has undergone significant roster turnover, and the pressure to win immediately is immense. This opener against Auburn will set the tone for the entire season and could impact team morale and execution.

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.