Kickoff Time Announced for Tennessee vs. Syracuse Matchup
The official kickoff time has been released for the highly anticipated game between the University of Tennessee and Syracuse University. Although the 2025 college football season is still months away, details for the early part of the schedule—including Weeks 0 and 1—are beginning to emerge. Among the first games to be confirmed is the matchup between Tennessee and Syracuse, which will take place during the season’s opening weekend. The game is set to begin at 12:00 PM Eastern Time and will be broadcast nationally on ABC.
This opening clash will mark a fresh start for both programs, each entering the 2025 season with unique storylines and high expectations. Tennessee, in particular, will be navigating some significant roster changes. The Volunteers recently experienced a major shakeup when their starting quarterback from last season, Nico Iamaleava, decided to transfer to UCLA. This unexpected move came after disagreements reportedly related to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) negotiations, a growing factor in modern college athletics.
In the wake of Iamaleava’s departure, Tennessee acted quickly in the transfer portal and brought in Joey Aguilar, a quarterback from UCLA. Aguilar is expected to step into the starting role, bringing experience and potential stability to Tennessee’s offense. As the Volunteers adapt to their new lineup, all eyes will be on how well Aguilar adjusts to his new environment and whether he can lead the team to continued success.
Tennessee’s 2024 season was a historic one, with the program making its first-ever appearance in the College Football Playoff. That momentum carries into 2025, but the team’s ability to maintain its elite status will be put to the test right away in the season opener.
Syracuse, meanwhile, is coming off a strong season of its own. Under the leadership of head coach Fran Brown, who took over the team last year, the Orange had a breakout campaign. Brown’s first season at the helm brought renewed energy and results, making Syracuse a program to watch as they continue building under his direction. Entering his second year, expectations are rising, and the game against Tennessee will provide a valuable early test.
The Week 1 showdown will be a significant challenge for both teams. Tennessee will be looking to prove that it remains a national contender despite offseason changes, while Syracuse will aim to show that last season’s success was no fluke. Both teams will have something to prove, and this matchup will give fans an early glimpse of what to expect in the season ahead.
With a nationally televised noon kickoff on a major network like ABC, the game is sure to draw a large audience. It not only offers compelling storylines but also sets the tone for an exciting start to the 2025 college football season.
