Kansas Vs. South Dakota State: Game Preview

The Charlie Weis era in Lawrence will officially get underway this week, as Weis' Jayhawks are set to open the 2012 season on Saturday night when Kansas plays host to South Dakota State.

Though a quick turnaround is never guaranteed in college sports, especially college football, Weis figures to have more success in 2012 than Turner Gill had as head coach in 2011, when the Jayhawks went 2-10, and finished the season on a 10-game losing streak.

Weis last served as a head coach with Notre Dame in 2009, and spent five seasons with the Fighting Irish. Weis led Notre Dame to two BCS bowls in his first two years, but failed to win either of them.

Kansas' season opener is one of three consecutive home games to start the season for the Jayhawks. Kansas will host Rice in Week 2 before hosting TCU in Week 3.

Weis' Week 1 opener against South Dakota State is something of a layup, as the Jackrabbits are members of the FCS -- formerly known as Division II.

Televised coverage of Kansas' season opener against South Dakota St. can be found locally on the Jayhawk Television Network. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT.

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