By Mark Pszonak
G5 programs are always looking for a program-building victory against a P4 opponent. AAC teams have multiple opportunities to accomplish this in 2025. Here are five games to watch that could produce huge wins for the conference:
East Carolina at NC State (August 28)
The skinny: This Thursday night opener is an interesting in-state battle. While the Pirates underwent a head coaching change midway through the 2024 season, they rebounded and won five of their last six games, including a victory over North Carolina State in the Military Bowl. The Wolfpack finished 6-7, in what was a very disappointing season. Can the Pirates beat NC State in consecutive games?
Duke at Tulane (September 13)
The skinny: After the transfer of quarterback Darian Mensah from Tulane to Duke, this immediately became an intriguing game. His welcome back in New Orleans likely won’t be pleasant and the Green Wave will be eager to prove that his departure was the wrong decision.
Tulane Athletics
More Sports News
Northwestern at Tulane (August 30)
The skinny: Before Tulane hosts Duke (see above), they also have the opportunity to host a Big Ten program. Northwestern struggled mightily in 2024, but they have been known to rebound quickly in previous years. For the Green Wave, this is the opener of a season that has a great deal of potential. A win against the Wildcats is vital to keep the good vibes going.
Army at Kansas State (September 6)
The skinny: An interesting matchup, between two schools that have only played two times, with the last being in 1987. Army enjoyed a monumental season in 2024, winning 12 games for the first time in their storied history. Facing the unique Army offense is never simple, especially for a program that does not see it regularly. And Kansas State will be focusing their summer attention on their season and conference opener against Iowa State, which makes it uniquely important.
Arkansas at Memphis (September 20)
The skinny: This is an interesting matchup between two schools that are only 317 miles apart. However, they have only played five times, with the last being in 1998. This is a big season for Arkansas and head coach Sam Pittman, whose seat will warm by the day if the Razorbacks don’t get off to a fast start in 2025. Memphis has the opportunity to make things even worse for their neighbors.
