The discussion about college football during the 2025-2026 offseason centers heavily on the strength of schedule. This aspect forms the basis of conference bragging rights. The College Football Playoff selection committee considers both strength of schedule and strength of resume in their ranking methods. As a result, perceptions of team strength can change significantly based on how difficult their schedule appears.
The Big Ten and SEC are frequently mentioned as having the toughest schedules in the country for 2026. The Texas Longhorns might face the hardest journey of any team. Ohio State’s schedule includes trips to face Texas, USC, Iowa, Nebraska, and Indiana. They will also host Oregon and Michigan. With such a lineup, their schedule is undoubtedly challenging, even for a team with one of the best rosters in the sport.
An ESPN personality was criticized on social media for inaccurately portraying the SEC’s strength of schedule.
Joey McGuire, head coach of the Texas Tech Red Raiders, is seen after a game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, on October 25, 2025.
The strength of the SEC and Big Ten, from top to bottom, means that teams in these leagues face demanding schedules. Other Power 4 conferences, like the ACC or Big 12, do not face the same level of difficulty. SEC and Big Ten schools often emphasize that a 9-3 record in their conferences carries more weight than a 9-3 record in the Big 12.
The Texas Tech Red Raiders point out that they struggle to schedule top-tier opponents, as many schools refuse to play them. Cody Campbell has even threatened legal action against the College Football Playoff, highlighting other conferences’ reluctance to face Texas Tech.
Coach Joey McGuire explained to Brett McMurphy and On3 that they have tried to secure games with major programs like USC, Texas A&M, and NC State, but without success. “We’re talking to everybody and anybody. So far, everybody’s told us no,” McGuire stated.
One reason for teams avoiding the Red Raiders could be lingering issues related to the handling of the Brandon Sorsby situation. However, this raises questions about the criticism directed at Texas Tech regarding their schedule strength.
Texas Tech cannot make other Big 12 teams stronger, but they can aim to enhance their own schedule with challenging matches against strong opponents. If these teams choose not to play Texas Tech, criticizing them for not having a tough schedule seems unfair.
Joey McGuire wants his team to embrace the role of the ‘villain’ in college football. Although there are concerns over past issues, Tech has invested in improving their program and becoming a playoff contender. They aim to compete with the nation’s top teams. Rather than avoiding them, other teams should give Tech the opportunity to show their progress.
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