Aug 28, 2025 7:00 AM EDT
College football’s opening weekend isn’t just about playoff positioning—it’s also a proving ground for future NFL stars. And this weekend, scouts and general managers will be out in full force at three of the sport’s marquee showdowns.
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Clemson vs. LSU Draws Biggest NFL Crowd
The most anticipated matchup, No. 9 LSU traveling to No. 4 Clemson, has drawn the heaviest NFL presence. A total of 35 scouts and five general managers are expected in Death Valley to evaluate two rosters stacked with pro-level talent.
For Clemson, the focus will be on quarterback Cade Klubnik’s growth and a defense loaded with draft prospects, while LSU’s playmakers on both sides of the ball could cement their stock against elite competition.
Aug 31, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive lineman Peter Woods (11) shown on the field pregame prior to the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. — Source: © Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Texas and Ohio State Loaded With First-Round Talent
Over in Columbus, the spotlight will be on the heavyweight clash between No. 1 Texas and No. 3 Ohio State. NFL evaluators are circling this one as a potential draft preview, with 31 scouts from 20 teams and two general managers set to be on hand.
Both programs boast first-round candidates at quarterback, wide receiver, and the offensive line, making this one of the most talent-rich games of the season.
Notre Dame and Miami Add to Scouting Frenzy
Meanwhile, No. 6 Notre Dame’s visit to No. 10 Miami will also draw heavy interest. Thirty scouts and four general managers are expected to take in the action as the Irish bring their physical offensive front against Miami’s speed and depth on defense.
Both teams feature several underclassmen who could emerge as risers during the season.
It’s rare to see this level of NFL attention spread across multiple games in the opening week, but with so many potential first-rounders taking the field, the scouting frenzy underscores just how loaded the 2025 draft class could be.
About the Author
Jeremy Lockett
College Sports Writer, Athlon Sports
Jeremy covers college sports and the Savannah Bananas for Athlon Sports. A Carolina-born and raised writer and photographer, he also regularly covers his alma mater, Clemson University.