College Football 2025-2026: The Battle Over Strength of Schedule

The offseason for college football in 2025-2026 is centered on the strength of schedule debates. Conference prestige heavily relies on this. The College Football Playoff selection committee utilizes this metric when ranking teams. Views on team capabilities can shift significantly based on the perceived difficulty of their schedules.

The Big Ten and SEC lead in lists suggesting the hardest schedules for 2026. The Texas Longhorns face one of the toughest paths ahead. Ohio State will visit Texas, USC, Iowa, Nebraska, and Indiana, while welcoming Oregon and Michigan. It forms a challenging lineup for even a top-tier roster.

ESPN PERSONALITY BUSTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR INACCURATELY TRYING TO PROMOTE THE SEC’S STRENGTH OF SCHEDULE

Head Coach Joey McGuire of the Texas Tech Red Raiders gestures as he walks off the field after the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, on Oct. 25, 2025. (John E. Moore III/Getty Images)

The SEC and Big Ten’s overall strength results in rigorous schedules for most teams within these conferences. However, perceptions about other Power 4 conferences differ. The ACC and Big 12 reportedly face less stringent schedules compared to teams like Texas or Ohio State in 2026. Schools in the SEC and Big Ten often highlight that 9-3 in their conferences means more than a 9-3 record in the Big 12, an assertion frequently supported by the competitive context.

Texas Tech Red Raiders offer an explanation regarding their perceived weaker strength of schedule. Head Coach Joey McGuire mentions that major programs like USC, Texas A&M, and NC State have declined scheduling opportunities with Texas Tech.

CODY CAMPBELL THREATENS LAWSUITS AGAINST CFB PLAYOFF, WARNS OTHER CONFERENCES AGAINST AVOIDING TEXAS TECH

Tech head coach Joey McGuire told Brett McMurphy and On3 that despite their best efforts, and conversations with big programs like USC, Texas A&M, NC State and others, they haven’t been able to find top-tier opponents for their non-conference schedules moving forward.

We’re talking to everybody and anybody. So far, everybody’s told us no.

Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby looks on during the spring football game at Jones AT&T Stadium on April 17, 2026. (© Nathan Giese/Avalanche-Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

Concerns over Texas Tech’s handling of specific situations like the Brandon Sorsby situation influence other teams’ decisions to avoid playing them. Nonetheless, critics question these teams, their conferences, and their criteria concerning this metric.

Texas Tech aims to bolster its schedule by engaging with prominent programs like Texas A&M and USC. Yet, with these teams declining, Texas Tech’s intentions face roadblocks. Criticism arises over the lack of tough games for Texas Tech.

Texas Tech Red Raiders head coach Joey McGuire against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium on Oct. 18, 2025. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)

Even the handling of the Sorsby controversy remains an issue. McGuire encourages his team to accept the “villain” role within college football. Significant efforts include investments aimed at enhancing their program and building towards a competitive playoff contender.

Competitors should confront Texas Tech on the field, allowing them to demonstrate their growth. Opponents should avoid complaints regarding their schedule strength.

Ian Miller writes for OutKick.