Iowa State lost over 50 players to the portal, including 16 starters and 24 who followed the former coach to Penn State. The team added more than 45 transfers, meaning nearly the entire roster is new. This lack of continuity could lead to early-season execution issues, especially on offense where the line is almost entirely rebuilt and the quarterback is a newcomer.

Offensive coordinator Tyler Roehl, returning from the Detroit Lions, is expected to emphasize downhill rushing and play-action passing. The running back duo of Aiden Flora and MAC Freshman of the Year Cameron Pettaway provides a strong foundation, but the rebuilt offensive line must gel quickly for the scheme to work effectively.

The defense returns several contributors like DL Zaimir Hawk and Jace J. Gilbert, LB Carson Willich, and DBs David Coffey and Drew Surges. However, the spring ACL injury to Toledo transfer safety Braden Awls is a significant blow, forcing the staff to develop replacements during the summer. The unit's depth and chemistry will be tested early.

Kicker Kyle Konrardy is one of the nation's best, and the return game features explosive threats in Pettaway (33.0-yard kickoff return average) and Flora (26.1-yard punt return average with a touchdown). In a game where the offense may need time to click, special teams could provide crucial field position and scoring.

Iowa State hosts Southeast Missouri State at home with a 2.7-point home-field advantage. The forecast calls for partly cloudy skies at 69°F but with 23 mph wind, which could affect passing and kicking. The Cyclones' run-heavy offensive approach may be well-suited to these conditions, while the defense must account for wind on deep throws.

Arizona returns reigning first-team All-Big 12 QB Noah Fifita and the same offensive coordinator Seth Doege for the first time in Fifita's starting career. This continuity, combined with a deep receiving corps (Tre Spivey, Chris Hunter, Giovanni Richardson), should produce a high-scoring output against an FCS opponent, especially with Fifita chasing Nick Foles' career passing yards record.

Despite a strong 2025 defense that led the nation in takeaways per game, Arizona must replace three veteran defensive backs who combined for 6,700 career snaps. The Wildcats signed eight transfer portal DBs, but integrating new faces against a lesser opponent like Northern Arizona provides a low-risk opportunity to build chemistry before tougher competition.

Kicker Michael Salgado-Medina had a rough 2025, missing 12 of 31 field goals (most since 1999), though snapping issues were a factor. He showed improvement in spring and has leg strength (57-yarder vs. Oklahoma State). Against an FCS team, Arizona may need to rely on him for points, making his consistency a key factor in covering any potential spread.

Arizona enjoys a strong home-field advantage (HFA 2.3) and favorable weather (cloudy, 63°F, light wind) for the opener. This should allow the offense to operate at full efficiency and the defense to play aggressively, setting up a comfortable win against an overmatched Northern Arizona squad.

With all coordinators returning and a veteran QB leading the offense, Arizona enters the season with high internal and external expectations. An opposing Big 12 assistant praised Fifita's electric playmaking and the defense's unique scheme. A dominant Week 1 performance would validate that optimism and build momentum for the rest of the season.