The 2025 college football season is rapidly approaching, with detailed schedules providing a clearer picture of what fans can expect. Key announcements have been made regarding kickoff times and broadcasting networks for early-season games, offering anticipation for both local and national audiences.
Weeks one through three present numerous opportunities for Mid-American Conference (MAC) teams to showcase their talent on prominent platforms such as FS1, ESPN+, Big Ten Network, SEC Network, and CBS Sports Network. As the season progresses, additional highlights include late-season matchups and the annual MAC Championship game, all designed to captivate fans and elevate the profile of participating teams.
Opening Weeks: Setting the Stage for Success
In the initial weeks, MAC teams are poised to make significant impressions on various television networks. The first week alone features multiple high-profile contests, including three games airing on FS1 and several others broadcasted by the Big Ten Network.
This period offers MAC squads a chance to compete against formidable opponents from other conferences. For example, Ohio faces Rutgers, Miami (OH) takes on Wisconsin, and Ball State meets Purdue in Big Ten Network-featured matches. Additionally, Toledo squares off against Kentucky on the SEC Network, adding an unconventional start time to the schedule. These early encounters provide valuable exposure and set the tone for the remainder of the season.
Beyond Week 1, subsequent weeks continue to highlight MAC teams' competitive spirit. In Week 2, Northern Illinois travels to Maryland, marking one of two FBS vs. FBS matchups that evening. Meanwhile, Central Michigan heads to Pitt on ESPNU, Kent State battles Texas Tech on TNT—a network expanding its regular-season coverage—and Ball State challenges Auburn in primetime. Such matchups not only attract attention but also underscore the MAC's growing influence within college football.
Late-Season Thrills and Championship Glory
As the calendar turns toward November, the focus shifts to intense midweek action, culminating in the traditional Thanksgiving week festivities. Tuesdays and Wednesdays become stages for rivalry renewals and crucial conference showdowns, ensuring consistent engagement from viewers across diverse networks like ESPN2, ESPNU, and CBS Sports Network.
These midweek contests amplify excitement among fan bases, with notable examples including UMass versus Akron, Miami (OH) challenging Ohio in their historic rivalry, and Northern Illinois hosting Toledo. By scheduling five nationally televised matchups in Weeks 12 and 13, the MAC ensures sustained interest throughout the season's final stretch.
Capping off the campaign is the MAC Championship Game, scheduled for Saturday, December 6, at noon ET on ESPN. Held once again at Ford Field in Detroit, this event showcases the top two teams based on conference performance without divisional distinctions. It serves as a fitting conclusion to a season filled with thrilling moments, strategic planning, and unwavering dedication from every participant involved in shaping the narrative of college football's future stars.