One team is reeling from a shocking offseason coaching change, while the other is desperate to turn a corner under a legendary alumnus. For Stanford and Hawaii, this Week Zero matchup is a test of stability and a search for a new identity.
The contest allows both teams to work out any kinks before the grind of conference play takes over. For Stanford, that means preparing for a second year of cross-country trips in the ACC. In contrast, the Rainbow Warriors, accustomed to long flights, will prep for their usual Mountain West slate.
How Will Offseason Chaos Affect Each Team?
The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, led by head coach Timmy Chang in his fourth season, seek sustained improvement. Chang is a school legend, and with 17,072 passing yards, he remains one of the most prolific quarterbacks in FBS history.
Meanwhile, new interim head coach Frank Reich hopes to bring stability to a Stanford program rocked by a chaotic offseason. The university fired Troy Taylor after misconduct allegations surfaced, thrusting Reich into the leadership role while the athletic program searches for a permanent coach.
With so much upheaval, the team’s hope relies on its offensive line, where sophomore left tackle Kahlil House is expected to be an anchor as the program transitions to a new era.
Game Details
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET (4:30 p.m. PT)
Location: Clarence T. C. Ching Athletics Complex | Honolulu, Hawaii
How to Watch/Listen
TV: CBS/Paramount+
Radio: KNBR 104.5 (Bay Area); KKEA 1420 (Honolulu)
Betting Line
Spread: Hawaii -2.5
Total: O/U 50.5
Moneyline: Hawaii -130, Stanford +107
Look Ahead to the 2025 Season for Both Teams
Under Chang, Hawaii went 5-7 during the 2024 season. The Rainbow Warriors have not enjoyed a winning season since the COVID-shortened 2020 campaign, so starting the season at home goes a long way for a program that must make four trips to the mainland.
Additionally, the school looks to break ground on a new stadium site in Hālawa. Chang’s offensive philosophy is built around the passing game, and he will rely on Micah Alejado to lead the team.
The redshirt freshman completed 70% of his passes with six touchdowns and zero interceptions a year ago. The wideout duo of Pofele Ashlock and Nick Cenacle also returns, looking to build on their solid seasons. The tandem combined for 124 receptions, 1,350 yards, and 12 touchdowns.
Defensively, Hawaii’s strength resides within its secondary, with safety Peter Manuma bringing solid, if unspectacular, play between the lines.
Meanwhile, the Cardinal will play ten games in different time zones, so jet lag could become a significant factor as the season progresses. On top of that, their schedule includes a game against SMU and a season finale in South Bend, facing a Notre Dame team with dreams of another College Football Playoff appearance.
Looking at their tough schedule, a path to bowl eligibility will be challenging. Reich needs to establish a sense of direction quickly, and he is hoping his players follow his lead.