19. OLE MISS REBELS
Toughest non-conference game: vs. Tulane, Sept. 20
Tulane remains one of the most respected Group of Five programs in the country and could be a dangerous force in 2025, even after losing starting quarterback Darian Mensah to the transfer portal in December. Ole Miss handled the Green Wave on the road in 2023, but shouldn’t be taken lightly in this matchup either.
18. IOWA STATE CYCLONES
Toughest non-conference game: vs. Iowa, Sept. 6
Despite winning two of the past three meetings against its bitter rival, Iowa State has not beaten Iowa in Ames since 2011, with each of its last four wins in the Cy-Hawk series coming in Iowa City.
17. KANSAS STATE WILDCATS
Toughest non-conference game: vs. Army, Sept. 6
There is a reason few power conference teams line up games against military academies — their unique, physical style of play wears down opponents. The Wildcats are 3-3 all-time against service academies, including two losses in previous matchups with Army.
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