As the 2025-2026 college football offseason unfolds, strength of schedule remains a central topic. The College Football Playoff selection committee factors in strength of schedule and resume metrics when ranking teams, making the difficulty of opponents a critical consideration.

While the Big Ten and SEC conferences dominate lists of the toughest schedules for 2026, Texas Tech's schedule appears weaker. Head Coach Joey McGuire of the Texas Tech Red Raiders attributes this to several prominent programs declining to play them.

McGuire stated that Texas Tech has been turned down by USC, Texas A&M, NC State, and others despite actively seeking top-tier non-conference opponents. "We’re talking to everybody and anybody. So far, everybody’s told us no," he said. The Red Raiders see this as the reason behind their less challenging schedule.

McGuire has also expressed that he wants the team to embrace the role of the "villain" in college football, acknowledging the challenges they face in scheduling.

Texas Tech's quarterback Brendan Sorsby was seen during the spring football game at Jones AT&T Stadium on April 17, 2026, as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

Sources