Certain example embodiments relate to methods for low temperature direct graphene growth on glass, and/or associated articles/devices. In certain example embodiments, a glass substrate has a layer including Ni formed thereon. The layer including Ni has a stress pre-engineered through the implantation of He therein. It also may be preconditioned via annealing and/or the like. A remote plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition technique is used to form graphene both above and below the Ni-inclusive film. The Ni-inclusive film and the top graphene may be removed via tape and/or the like, leaving graphene on the substrate. Optionally, a silicon-inclusive layer may be formed between the Ni-inclusive layer and the substrate. Products including such articles, and/or methods of making the same, also are contemplated.