Spring football games kick off this week, spotlighting Virginia Tech, Michigan, Miami, and others. The ACC leads Power 4 conferences with eight games, while the SEC features seven. These matchups offer first glimpses of new coaching eras and roster adjustments.

Virginia Tech’s transition under James Franklin takes center stage, with the Hokies aiming to rebuild after losing defensive stars like Cade Uluave and TJ Bush Jr. to the transfer portal. Freshman QB Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele returns, but the defense’s overhaul remains a critical question. Meanwhile, Michigan’s Kyle Whittingham era begins, though spring game details remain sparse. Miami faces QB uncertainty after Darian Mensah’s departure, leaving walk-on Walker Eget and redshirt freshman Dan Mahan to contend for the starting role.

Georgia Tech’s offense, once led by Haynes King, now pivots to portal addition Justice Haynes, who aims to anchor a run-heavy attack under new coordinator George Gideon. Louisville’s Jeff Brohm bets on Lincoln Kienholz—a former Ohio State backup—to revitalize the passing game, though the Cardinals’ receiver corps lost three starters. Positional gaps and freshman development will define these teams’ outlooks.

The spring schedule reveals tactical priorities: Cal’s defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi tests his head-coaching mettle, while Duke’s QB void and Georgia Tech’s linebacker corps highlight roster vulnerabilities. With Nate Sheppard’s rushing prowess and Justice Haynes’ explosive potential, individual performances could signal future success. These games set the stage for conference title races and playoff implications in 2026.