The 2025 college football season kicks off with a highly anticipated matchup between the South Carolina Gamecocks and the Virginia Tech Hokies. This game, part of the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game series, is scheduled for Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, with a kickoff time set for 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
The Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game has become a premier event to start the college football season, featuring high-profile matchups between teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). In 2025, the South Carolina Gamecocks, representing the SEC, will face the Virginia Tech Hokies from the ACC. This game marks the first meeting between these two programs since 1991, renewing a rivalry that dates back over three decades.
One of the most compelling narratives surrounding this matchup is the Beamer family connection. Shane Beamer, head coach of South Carolina, is the son of Frank Beamer, the legendary former head coach of Virginia Tech. Shane played for the Hokies and later served as an assistant coach under his father. This game will be the first time Shane faces his alma mater and his father’s former team, adding a personal dimension to the contest.
Quarterback LaNorris Sellers is expected to be a key player for the Gamecocks. In the previous season, he threw for 2,534 yards and 18 touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. His performance in this season opener will be crucial for South Carolina’s success
Virginia Tech has traditionally been known for its strong defense. The Hokies will look to leverage their defensive prowess to contain South Carolina’s offense. How well they execute their defensive game plan will be a significant factor in the outcome of the game.
The game is scheduled to be televised nationally, with broadcast details to be announced closer to the date. Fans can expect extensive coverage across various media platforms, including television and streaming services. Given the significance of the matchup, it is anticipated that major networks will provide comprehensive pre-game and post-game analysis.
Tickets for the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game are in high demand. Priority access is given to Hokie Scholarship Fund donors and season ticket holders, with ticket sales commencing in March 2025. General public sales will follow, with details to be provided by the respective athletic departments.
The South Carolina Gamecocks and the Virginia Tech Hokies have a storied history, with 20 previous meetings between the two programs. South Carolina leads the all-time series 11-7-2 and has won the last four contests, including a 28-21 victory in their last matchup in 1991.
While the game takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, its significance resonates beyond the United States. College football has a growing international following, and matchups like this one attract attention from fans around the world. The Beamer family connection, in particular, adds a human interest angle that appeals to a global audience.
The outcome of this season opener could have implications for both teams’ momentum heading into the rest of the season. A strong performance could boost confidence and set the tone for the games that follow. Conversely, a loss might prompt a reassessment of strategies and adjustments in subsequent matchups.
The 2025 Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game between South Carolina and Virginia Tech is more than just a season opener; it’s a celebration of college football’s rich traditions and compelling storylines. With the Beamer family legacy, standout players like LaNorris Sellers, and the historical context of the rivalry, this game promises to be a memorable start to the college football season. Fans, both in the stadium and watching from home, can look forward to an exciting and emotionally charged contest.
