As the 2025-2026 college football offseason unfolds, discussions about strength of schedule are at the forefront, influencing conference standings and playoff selections. The Big Ten and SEC are highlighted as the conferences with the toughest schedules, with Texas Longhorns facing particularly daunting opponents. Ohio State’s schedule includes road games against Texas, USC, Iowa, Nebraska, and Indiana, alongside home games against Oregon and Michigan. In contrast, teams like Texas Tech are struggling to secure challenging non-conference opponents, as head coach Joey McGuire reports difficulties in scheduling games with major programs despite efforts to reach out. This situation raises questions about the fairness of how schedules affect perceptions of team strength and playoff eligibility.
Why It Matters
Strength of schedule is a key factor in college football rankings and playoff selections, impacting how teams are viewed and their chances for postseason play. Historically, the SEC and Big Ten have dominated the landscape with their rigorous schedules, which can lead to disparities with teams from other conferences like the ACC and Big 12. The inability of teams like Texas Tech to schedule high-profile opponents not only affects their own playoff aspirations but also raises concerns about the competitive integrity of college football and how programs are evaluated based on their schedules. This ongoing issue highlights the complexities of scheduling in the current college football landscape.
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