As the college football world eagerly anticipates the official start of the 2023 season in Week 1, a select 10.5% of FBS programs are set to kick things off this Saturday in Week 0. 

Games will span from Dublin, Ireland, in the East to Los Angeles in the West, spanning six different time zones, ensuring a full day of football action for fans.

The most anticipated match-up of the day sees the No. 13 Notre Dame Fighting Irish facing off against Navy in the scenic backdrop of Ireland. While the spectacle alone is enough to draw attention, it’s also worth noting that Week 0 lacks games between Power Five opponents, making this clash even more intriguing. 

Notre Dame is aiming for new heights with their new quarterback, Sam Hartman, who transferred from Wake Forest. Meanwhile, Navy, with new coach Brian Newberry at the helm, is eager to bounce back from a disappointing 4-8 season.

In the prime-time spotlight, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Caleb Williams, leads the No. 6 USC Trojans as they take on San Jose State at home.

But the action doesn’t stop there. Jacksonville State, one of the two new FBS teams, along with Sam Houston, embarks on a new era as they face off against Conference USA opponent UTEP.

While winning is the ultimate goal on the field, we can’t help but consider the odds. Stick with CBS Sports for comprehensive college football coverage throughout the day as we analyze the opening kickoff and beyond. Now, let’s delve into our expert picks for the standout games in Week 0.

No. 13 Notre Dame vs. Navy (Ireland)

Kickoff: 2:30 p.m. | TV: NBC, fubo (Try for free)

Week 0 is known for its unpredictability, and playing a game overseas only adds to the intrigue. To illustrate, last year, Northwestern secured their only victory in Dublin, Ireland, during Week 0, against a heavily favored Nebraska team. While we’re not forecasting an outright Navy victory, Notre Dame’s historical struggles against perceived weaker opponents make a spread of over 20 points worth considering.

UMass at New Mexico State

Kickoff: 7 p.m. | TV: ESPN, fubo (Try for free)

The relatively small spread for this game raises eyebrows. Initially, the Aggies were favoured by 9.5 points, but it has since shrunk to as little as a touchdown, indicating that many share our sentiment. 

While New Mexico State isn’t a powerhouse, they did finish last season with a respectable 7-6 record and reached their first bowl game since 2017. Jerry Kill’s teams may not dazzle, but they’re well-coached and disciplined. 

On the flip side, UMass has struggled significantly in recent years, boasting a dismal 3-37 record since 2019, with a mere 13-27 record against the spread. When playing as an underdog, they’ve gone 12-25 against the spread, and as a road underdog, they’ve lost by an average of 33.7 points per game.

San Jose State at No. 6 USC

Kickoff: 8 p.m. | TV: Pac-12 Network, fubo (Try for free)

USC’s offence is expected to shine this season, ranking among the nation’s best. However, their defence faces significant uncertainties, and San Jose State poses a formidable opening challenge. Spartans quarterback Chevan Cordeiro is poised to contend for the Mountain West Player of the Year title and could test the Trojans’ defence.

In last year’s opener, USC put up a staggering 66 points against Rice and then added 45 against fellow Mountain West opponent Fresno State. If you’re a fan of high-scoring affairs and dynamic West Coast offences, this is the Week 0 game to watch. Our pick: Over 66.5.

As Week 0 ushers in the excitement of the new college football season, fans can look forward to a day packed with thrilling action and the promise of surprises on the horizon.

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