From FSU to Dan Mullen, here are three 'overreactions' from week zero of the college football season
Week Zero Wrap‑Up: Fan Fever, Upsets, and an Uncertain Start to the Season
August 28, 2026
By Maine News Now
The first slate of college football games—known to fans as “week‑zero”—was a whirlwind of excitement and surprise, setting the stage for the regular season that will begin next Saturday. With three high‑profile matchups on the docket, the week delivered both expected outcomes and a few unexpected twists, sparking lively debate across the social‑media landscape.
Florida State vs. New Mexico State – Tallahassee
Date & Time: Saturday night
Location: Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee
Result: Florida State 38, New Mexico State 21 (FSU won by 17 points)
Florida State entered the game as a 31.5‑point favorite, having finished the 2025 season with a 9‑4 record. New Mexico State, however, came off an 0‑8 campaign. Despite the heavy odds, the Seminoles struggled early. A costly early pick‑six and a missed touchdown reception nearly narrowed the gap, and the game remained within a touchdown until the fourth quarter. By the final quarter, the score hovered within 10 points before FSU pulled away.
New Mexico State’s smaller roster and new starting quarterback, former Auburn transfer Ashton Daniels, were highlighted as key factors in the Seminoles’ difficulty. The loss has prompted calls among FSU fans to consider whether head coach Mike Norvell’s contract, which includes a significant buy‑out, might be worth reevaluating. However, many observers note that the coach’s future with the program remains uncertain.
UNLV Rebels vs. Memphis – Las Vegas
Date & Time: Saturday night
Location: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas
Result: Memphis 27, UNLV 21 (Memphis won)
The UNLV Rebels, who had been touted as a Group of 6 candidate for the College Football Playoff, fell to Memphis in a 27‑21 loss. Head coach Dan Mullen expressed frustration on the post‑game press conference, criticizing the crowd’s noise and questioning defensive performance, particularly a play involving a Division II transfer quarterback.
Defensive coordinator Paul Guenther, in his first season with the Rebels, faced intense scrutiny after the game. Some fans have urged Mullen to replace him, but no official move has been announced. Mullen’s willingness to stay the course, despite early criticism, is noted by observers who compare his approach to past coaching tenures at other programs.
USC vs. San Jose State – Los Angeles
Date & Time: Saturday night
Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles
Result: USC 49, San Jose State 20 (USC won)
The Trojans, led by head coach Lincoln Riley, finished their opening game 4‑0 and ranked in the top 10. Despite the win, the stadium was described as “half‑empty,” a situation that drew criticism from the fan base and commentators. Photographs of the Coliseum revealed many vacant seats, while the student section was reportedly packed and vocal. The attendance issue has sparked debate over whether a hot climate, lack of early season enthusiasm, or broader trends in Los Angeles sports fan engagement are to blame.
USC’s upcoming game against Oregon is expected to attract a fuller crowd, as the Trojans’ early success may galvanize the fan base. The university’s athletic department has not issued an official statement regarding attendance concerns.
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
Across all three games, social media buzz was intense. Fans of the Seminoles posted “woof” comments and expressed disappointment after the team’s 17‑point victory margin was narrower than expected. UNLV supporters rallied for a coaching change, while USC fans debated the merits of the low attendance figures. The reactions illustrate how early-season games can amplify both excitement and frustration among college football followers.
Looking Ahead
Week zero has provided a preview of what to expect from the 2026 season: a mixture of dominant performances and surprising setbacks. Coaches such as Norvell, Mullen, and Riley will face scrutiny as the season unfolds, and the success of their programs will hinge on early wins and the ability to rally their fan bases. As teams gear up for the official kickoff on Saturday, the conversation is poised to shift from reactions to results.