What is "when does college football start"?

College football in the United States typically starts in late August or early September, depending on the conference and team schedule. The start of the college football season is eagerly anticipated by fans, players, and coaches alike, as it marks the beginning of months of intense competition and excitement.

Each year, the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) sets the official start date for college football, which is usually the last weekend in August or the first weekend in September. However, some teams may choose to start their season earlier or later depending on their schedule and conference requirements. For example, teams in the SEC (Southeastern Conference) often start their season in late August, while teams in the Big Ten Conference may start in early September.

The college football season typically consists of 12 regular-season games, followed by conference championship games and bowl games. The regular season usually lasts from late August to early December, with conference championship games taking place in early December and bowl games starting in late December and continuing into January. The College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship game is typically held in early January, marking the end of the college football season.

One of the most highly anticipated events in college football is the kickoff weekend, which usually features marquee matchups between top-ranked teams. These games are often televised nationally and draw large crowds of fans to the stadiums. The kickoff weekend sets the tone for the rest of the season and provides an early indication of which teams are likely to be contenders for the national championship.

In addition to the regular season games, college football also features a number of special events and rivalries that are eagerly anticipated by fans. One of the most famous rivalries in college football is the annual game between the University of Michigan and Ohio State University, known as "The Game." This rivalry dates back over a century and is one of the most intense and competitive in all of college sports.

Another highlight of the college football season is the postseason, which includes conference championship games, bowl games, and the College Football Playoff. The College Football Playoff was established in 2014 to determine the national champion of college football. The playoff consists of four teams selected by a committee based on their performance during the regular season. These teams compete in two semifinal games, with the winners advancing to the national championship game.

The College Football Playoff has added a new level of excitement and competitiveness to the college football postseason, as teams now have the opportunity to compete for a national championship on the field. The playoff system has received both praise and criticism from fans and analysts, but it has undeniably increased the stakes and intensity of college football postseason play.

In addition to the College Football Playoff, there are dozens of other bowl games that take place in December and January. These bowl games feature matchups between teams from different conferences and provide an opportunity for players to showcase their talents on a national stage. Some of the most prestigious bowl games include the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Orange Bowl, and Cotton Bowl.

Overall, college football is a beloved American tradition that brings together fans, players, and coaches from across the country. The start of the college football season is a highly anticipated event that marks the beginning of months of intense competition and excitement. Whether it's the kickoff weekend, conference championship games, bowl games, or the College Football Playoff, there is no shortage of thrilling moments and memorable experiences to be had during the college football season. So mark your calendars and get ready for another exciting year of college football action!