Arrowhead Awaits: Chiefs’ Mark Donovan Teases Electric Atmosphere for Huskers’ Season Kickoff

This matchup wasn’t always destined for Kansas City. Originally slated for Indianapolis, the game found a new home after a strategic relocation, one driven by the passionate ties between Husker Nation and the Chiefs.

For Donovan, that connection made the move a no-brainer. "The loyalty and support of the Huskers and their fans... that has shown up. We have done pretty much what we expected, if not more, in terms of ticket sales," he said.

A sea of red in NFL territory

The ticket numbers tell a powerful story. Out of Arrowhead’s 76,416-seat capacity, about 70,000 tickets have already been sold. Nebraska’s athletic director estimates that roughly 60,000 of those belong to Husker fans. This means that on game night, this “neutral site” will feel a lot like Lincoln, just with Kansas City barbecue nearby.

The Chiefs organization has plenty of experience turning Arrowhead into a college football stage. Over the years, the stadium has hosted more than 40 college games, each charged with its own flavor of energy. This time will be no different.

"We know that the Nebraska faithful is loud, proud, and have been traveling for decades to watch their team," said Matt Kenny, EVP of Arrowhead Operations & Events. "The expectation they can have is a comfortable, vibrant environment, it will be different than Memorial Stadium, but if they have been to a Chiefs game... it will be the same kind of energy."

Countdown to kickoff

Before the Husker faithful descend on Arrowhead, the stadium’s crew will be working double time. Just six days before Nebraska and Cincinnati face off, Arrowhead will host the Chiefs’ preseason game against the Chicago Bears on Friday, August 22. The quick turnaround is all in a day’s work for a venue that prides itself on delivering big-time events back-to-back.

When the Cornhuskers and Bearcats take the field on Thursday, August 28, at 8 p.m. CDT, it won’t just be another season opener. It will be a collision of fan bases, traditions, and noise levels that could rattle even the most seasoned players. 

For Nebraska, the stakes are simple: start the season strong and give the traveling faithful something to roar about. For Cincinnati, the challenge is even clearer: walk into a stadium draped in red and try to silence it.

Either way, Arrowhead is ready. And according to Donovan and Kenny, so is Husker Nation.

Nebraska Football 2025 Schedule

• Aug. 28 (Thursday) vs. Cincinnati (Kansas City) 8 p.m. ESPN
• Sep. 6 vs. Akron 6:30 p.m. CDT BTN
• Sep. 13 vs. Houston Christian 11 a.m. FS1
• Sep. 20 vs. Michigan 2:30 p.m. CBS
• Oct. 4 vs. Michigan State 11/2:30/3
• Oct. 11 at Maryland TBA
• Oct. 17 (Friday) at Minnesota 7 p.m. FOX
• Oct. 25 vs. Northwestern TBA
• Nov. 1 vs. USC TBA
• Nov. 8 at UCLA TBA
• Nov. 22 at Penn State TBA
• Nov. 28 (Black Friday) vs. Iowa 11 a.m. CBS

Home games are bolded. All times central.