The highly anticipated 2025 college football season kicks off with a compelling matchup between the Virginia Tech Hokies and the South Carolina Gamecocks. The game is scheduled for Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. ET, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. This contest serves as the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game, a premier event marking the start of the college football season .
A Storied Matchup
This game holds significant historical and personal narratives. It will be the first meeting between Virginia Tech and South Carolina since 1991, and the first-ever appearance for South Carolina in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game . Adding to the intrigue is the presence of Shane Beamer, the current head coach of South Carolina. Beamer is the son of Frank Beamer, the legendary former head coach of Virginia Tech, making this matchup a poignant family affair .
Team Profiles
- Virginia Tech Hokies: Under the guidance of head coach Justin Fuente, the Hokiaim to start the season strong. Their performance in this opener will be crucial for setting the tone for the remainder of the season.
- South Carolina Gamecocks: Coached by Shane Beamer, the Gamecocks are coming off a 9-4 season and are poised to be a nationally ranked team for 2025. Key returning players include quarterback LaNorris Sellers, who threw for 2,534 yards and 18 touchdowns, and defensive end Dylan Stewart, who tallied 6.5 sacks .Â
Significance of the Game
The Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game is renowned for featuring high-profile matchups that set the stage for the college football season. With both teams bringing strong rosters and compelling storylines, this game is expected to be a thrilling start to the season. Fans can look forward to a competitive and emotionally charged contest as these two programs face off for the first time in over three decades.
As the season opener approaches, excitement builds for what promises to be an unforgettable game. With the Beamer family’s legacy intertwined with both programs, the 2025 Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game is more than just a football game—it’s a celebration of family, history, and the spirit of college football.
