The college football season is on the horizon, and the stage is set for the 2025 Aflac Kickoff Games. Officials revealed this week the kickoff times and television networks for the Labor Day weekend doubleheader at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The action kicks off on Saturday, August 30, with Syracuse vs. Tennessee at 12 p.m. ET on ABC, followed by South Carolina vs. Virginia Tech at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, August 31, airing nationally on ESPN. This marks the first time in the even's 17-year history that a game will be played on a Sunday.
“We’re kicking off the 2025 season here in the Capital of College Football with two terrific ACC vs. SEC matchups,” said Gary Stokan, CEO and president of Peach Bowl, Inc. “For nearly two decades, the Aflac Kickoff Game has set the standard for opening weekend matchups. That continues this year with four storied programs from two premier conferences.”
Debuts and Returns
The season will mark the first-ever appearance for both South Carolina and Syracuse. Tennessee is returning for the third time, winning previously against NC State in 2012 and against Georgia Tech in 2017. Virginia Tech will also make their third appearance, facing Alabama both in 2009 and 2013.
Matchup History
Tennessee leads the all-time series against Syracuse 3-0, including a 33-9 win in their last meeting in 2001. South Carolina holds an 11-7-2 record against Virginia Tech, but the two teams have not met since 1991 when the Gamecocks won 28-21.
Rivalry Trophy on the Line
Each matchup will feature a battle for the Old Leather Helmet Trophy, a postgame tradition where the winning team passes around the iconic helmet, starting with the head coach and passing it through each player, as a celebration of victory.
Since its inaugural year, the Aflac Kickoff Game has hosted 14 ACC vs. SEC matchups, with the SEC dominating the series 13-1 heading into this season.
Ticket Information
Fans van secure access to these 2025 Aflac Kickoff Games by joining the Peach Bowl, Inc. Wait List. Members will receive priority ticket access if and when inventory becomes available this summer.