The true return of college football is here as Week 1 is underway, meaning every team will be in action this weekend. Week 1 also marks the return of ESPN's College GameDay, which feels like the official start of fall every year.
Teams often opt to start the season with a weaker opponent, which takes some of the shine off Week 1. While the slate doesn't have the best slate of games, College GameDay had a clear top choice for the first host of the season, and it should create an incredible atmosphere to start what should be a thrilling year.
How to Watch ESPN's College GameDay
As is the weekly timeslot, this week's College GameDay begins at 9:00 AM ET from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or at 6:00 AM Pacific Time for those on the West Coast. The show will be broadcast live on ESPN as well as on the ESPN App and will be available on streaming services like FuboTv. Last season, ESPN allowed fans to watch for free on Pat McAfee's social media accounts, but it's unclear if that trend will continue.
The broadcast will be College GameDay's 500th show which means we could be in for some incredible antics, and a trip down memory lane.
Where is ESPN's College GameDay for Week 1
College GameDay will be live from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as the LSU Tigers host the Clemson Tigers in the start of the Lane Kiffin era. The Tigers and Lane Kiffin have been at the center of the college football world this offseason, especially with Thursday Night's eligibility ruling which will make for an interesting topic on the show.
Who is the Guest Picker this weekend?
College GameDay announced that Country music star Lainey Wilson as its guest picker for the showdown between LSU and Clemson. Not only will Wilson be picking the games, but she's also going to perform during the broadcast.
Can't wait to see @laineywilson perform tomorrow 🤠
— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) September 4, 2026
Join us on The Quad starting at 8 AM CT as we celebrate Week 1 and GameDay's 500th road show📍 pic.twitter.com/JsDMQjby5X
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