One of the most highly-anticipated opening-week games of the past few years, the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game will become games -- plural -- this year.
In a release, it was announced that the event will host two games on back-to-back nights, one on Friday night (Aug. 31) and Saturday (Sept. 1). The Friday night game will feature North Carolina State and Tennessee, with Auburn and Clemson playing Saturday in a rematch of the 2007 Chick-fil-A Bowl.
On a completely unrelated note, Auburn commit Cassanova McKinzy is sure to be a happy man.
The Friday night game will be broadcast on ESPNU and Saturday’s game will be on ABC/ESPN. Last year, Boise State defeated Georgia, 35-21. Should be fun this year.
Below are statements from the each of the four schools participating.
Dave Hart, Tennessee
“We look forward to being a part of the Chick-fil-A Kickoff weekend in Atlanta. The exposure afforded our university and football program through our participation in this season-opening event is very significant.”
Debbie Yow, North Carolina State
“NC State fans love Atlanta and participating in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game is a particularly exciting way to kick off our 2012 season. We think there will be a lot of State red there to cheer on our team.”
Jay Jacobs, Auburn
“We could not be more excited to open our season against Clemson in the Georgia Dome. This will be a great opportunity for our student-athletes and our fans to enjoy a highly competitive game in a great venue close to home. The Chick-fil-A Kickoff game has come to signify the start of the college football season, and this year will be even more exciting with a double-header in Atlanta.”
Terry Don Phillips, Clemson
“The Clemson vs. Auburn game at the Georgia Dome will be one of the national highlights of the opening weekend of college football. We have had two great games with Auburn the last two years and we are sure this third game also will be played at a high level.”