A blistering heatwave grips college football in Week 1, forcing significant adjustments to several games across the nation. Teams are grappling with extreme temperatures that have notably altered the course of at least two contests.

In Columbia, South Carolina, the fourth quarter of South Carolina's season opener against Kent State was cut short to just 10 minutes due to the intense heat, with the temperature soaring to triple digits and a feels-like temperature nearing 110 degrees at Williams-Brice Stadium.

Meanwhile, in Topeka, Kansas, the D-II clash between Washburn and Colorado School of Mines also fell victim to the heat. The game, which had reached overtime tied at 16-16, was halted as temperatures approached dangerous levels, marking Washburn's first tie since 1977.

The afternoon games faced even more extreme conditions. The kickoff for Georgia's season opener against Tennessee State occurred at 100 degrees, setting a record for the hottest game in the program's history. The National Weather Service issued a Heat Advisory for both Austin, Texas and Knoxville, Tennessee, where heat indexes are predicted to reach 105 degrees.

Concerns are also rising about the turf conditions; for instance, at Skelly Field, where Tulsa hosts Oklahoma State, turf temperatures soared above 150 degrees. As the NCAA considers adjustments to the season calendar, players and coaches are urged to stay hydrated and protect themselves from the relentless heat. With the prospect of an earlier season start under discussion, fans may need to brace themselves for more sweltering conditions in the future.