College football has returned with the completion of Week Zero, offering fans a glimpse of the action ahead of the official opening week. This marks a return to normalcy for enthusiasts following a period dominated by court dates and NIL concerns.
Week Zero, often considered an appetizer for the main season, provided enough excitement to sustain fans until the more robust matchups arrive. As is tradition, early season reactions have flooded social media, with some proving weightier than others.
Midseason Struggles: Florida State’s Troubling Start
Florida State Seminoles, coached by Mike Norvell, faced New Mexico State in their 2026 opener with high expectations. Fans hoped for a dominant performance from FSU, a team listed as a 31.5-point favorite. However, the Seminoles only managed a 17-point win, causing a stir among supporters.
With New Mexico State closing the gap to 10 points in the fourth quarter, Seminoles fans expressed dissatisfaction online. Despite the team’s narrow victory, open criticism of Norvell and calls for his dismissal surfaced. Given Norvell’s substantial buyout, any drastic action remains unlikely, yet concerns about another challenging season could hold validity.
Challenges in UNLV’s Playoff Quest
UNLV Rebels, under head coach Dan Mullen, were favored to make the College Football Playoff as a Group of 6 representative. Yet, their aspirations took a hit after a home loss to Memphis, another playoff hopeful. Mullen’s press conference focused on fan noise disrupting offensive efforts, overshadowing defensive issues with quarterback Paul Guenther.
Mullen’s history of loyalty, even to embattled coordinators, has sparked concern among fans. Criticism abounded in the past, with parallels drawn to Mullen’s time at Florida. While expectations remain, Guenther’s first year as defensive coordinator suggests potential for improvement, warranting continued observation rather than immediate judgment.
USC’s Attendance Issues Prompt Concerns
USC Trojans, led by Lincoln Riley, saw sparse attendance during their opening game against San Jose State. Amid high hopes for the season, glimpses of a half-empty stadium prompted speculation on fan engagement. While explanations like heat and academic schedules surfaced, the emptiness echoed Los Angeles’s need for tangible results before rallying support.
Comparisons to Miami’s sports scene suggest USC faces similar challenges. Notably, student sections demonstrated fervor, showcasing their unwavering support. Whether this reflects an overreaction, time will determine. Should USC boast a stellar record and top-10 rank, the Coliseum’s atmosphere promises to shift dramatically.