Kansas Jayhawks vs Fresno State Bulldogs Picks and Predictions August 23rd 2025

QBs, Famous Fathers and New Stadium Energize Kansas-Fresno Opener

When Fresno State visits Kansas on Saturday to kick off the college football season, quarterback bloodlines are in the spotlight.

Fresno State hands the offense to E.J. Warner, son of Hall of Famer Kurt Warner. Meanwhile, Kansas boasts Cole Ballard, backup to starter Jalon Daniels and son of Indianapolis Colts GM Chris Ballard.

Warner won the Bulldogs’ starting job over Carson Conklin and Jayden Mandel in a tight battle. Head coach Matt Entz praised Warner’s experience but stressed the need to stay sharp.

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“He’s got leadership and poise,” Entz said. “But we need daily competition — no comfort zones.”

Warner, a senior transfer from Rice, brings 58 career touchdowns and 37 interceptions, though his tendency to turn the ball over is something Fresno will try to minimize.

Kansas coach Lance Leipold isn’t shocked Warner won the job.

“He doesn’t get rattled,” Leipold said. “He’s got experience and poise — not surprising at all.”

Daniels Leads Jayhawks Into New-Look Stadium

For Kansas, Jalon Daniels returns as the starter for his sixth season. Daniels passed for 2,454 yards and 14 touchdowns last season but was limited by injuries for the second straight year.

The Jayhawks are unveiling the first phase of a $450 million stadium renovation at David Booth Memorial Stadium, bringing fresh energy to a program that’s seeking its first bowl berth since 2022.

“It feels like a homecoming weekend, but we’ve got to stay locked in,” Leipold said.

Cole Ballard, now QB2, emerged from walk-on status — and his family background helped. “I knew there’d be upside with a competitive makeup like that,” Leipold said.

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Fresno’s Defense Faces a Kansas Offense With Firepower

Warner isn’t the only key player. Kansas has offensive balance with Daniels, center Bryce Foster, and defensive anchor Justice Finkley — all named permanent team captains.

Daniels brings dual-threat ability with 19 career rushing touchdowns to complement his arm.

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And if you’re planning to place a wager on this high-profile opener, you’ll want to review our full NFL Expert Betting Guide for game-day strategy.

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