The Tennessee Volunteers’ opening matchup against the Syracuse Orange in the 2025 Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game is poised to be a significant event in college football. Scheduled for Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, this game marks the first meeting between the two teams in over two decades. The matchup will be televised nationally on either ABC or ESPN, offering both teams a prime opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage .
However, the game is set to unfold under a considerable shadow—one that neither team can control. The 2025 season will commence in the aftermath of a potentially transformative realignment in college football conferences. Rumors and speculations about conference expansions and shifts have been circulating, and while nothing has been confirmed, the uncertainty surrounding these developments could overshadow the excitement of the season opener. Both Syracuse and Tennessee find themselves in conferences that may be affected by these changes, adding an element of unpredictability and concern as the season approaches.
For Syracuse, participating in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game represents a significant milestone, as it will be their first appearance in this prestigious event. Head Coach Dino Babers expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, emphasizing the excitement for both players and fans to open the season on such a prominent stage . On the other hand, Tennessee returns to the Kickoff Game for the third time, aiming to build on their previous experiences and continue their momentum under Head Coach Josh Heupel .
Despite the external uncertainties, both teams are focused on the task at hand—competing at a high level and making a statement to start the season. The Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game offers them a platform to do just that, setting the tone for what they hope will be successful seasons ahead.
