The discussion about college football in the 2025-2026 offseason frequently centers on the strength of schedule. This metric plays a significant role in determining conference bragging rights. The College Football Playoff selection committee uses both the strength of schedule and strength of resume as part of their ranking system. The perceived strength of a team can vary greatly based on how challenging their schedule is assumed to be.
As expected, the Big Ten and SEC command attention for having some of the most challenging schedules in 2026. Among them, the Texas Longhorns might face the toughest path. Ohio State will embark on road trips to Texas, USC, Iowa, Nebraska, and Indiana, while hosting Oregon and Michigan. Even for one of the top rosters, such a schedule poses significant challenges.
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Head Coach Joey McGuire of the Texas Tech Red Raiders is seen gesturing as he leaves the field after a game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, on October 25, 2025. (John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
The comprehensive strength of the nation’s leading conferences, especially the SEC, means many programs within these leagues face a demanding calendar. However, the remaining Power 4 conferences do not face the same level of difficulty.
It is generally accepted that the ACC or Big 12 does not schedule at the same intensity as powers like Texas or Ohio State in 2026. Schools in the SEC and Big Ten often remind everyone of this fact. When it is playoff debate time, they emphasize that a 9-3 record in the SEC differs from a 9-3 record in the Big 12.
Yet Texas Tech Red Raiders explain their less challenging strength of schedule by highlighting that these same schools refuse to play against them.
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Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire shared with Brett McMurphy and On3 that their attempts to schedule games with major programs like USC, Texas A&M, and NC State have not been fruitful. They have encountered repeated refusals.
“We’re talking to everybody and anybody. So far, everybody’s told us no,” McGuire said.
While there can be valid reasons for avoiding the Red Raiders, such as lingering frustration over the handling of the Brandon Sorsby situation, there remains valid criticism. This approach raises questions about the schools’ and conferences’ arguments regarding strength of schedule.
Texas Tech cannot change the quality of other Big 12 teams but seeks to enhance their own schedule by facing traditional powerhouses. If teams like Texas A&M or USC decline, it is difficult to fault Texas Tech for not having a rigorous schedule.
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Texas Tech’s head coach Joey McGuire is seen during a game with the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium on October 18, 2025. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)
The college football world acknowledges concerns regarding Texas Tech’s handling of past controversies. McGuire embraces the team’s ‘villain’ image within college football. Still, notable investments demonstrate their commitment to becoming a playoff contender. Instead of avoidance, established teams should allow Texas Tech the opportunity to prove themselves against elite competition.
If they do not, they should not criticize the Red Raiders later.
Ian Miller is a writer at OutKick.