Did Steve Sarkisian just expose Texas? Explosive Texas Tech scheduling claim is now in discussion

Steve Sarkisian didn’t mince words last week when discussing how the College Football Playoff committee judges strength of schedule, taking what many viewed as a clear jab at former Big 12 rival Texas Tech. Sarkisian said that even Texas’ second- and third-string units could go undefeated against the Red Raiders’ schedule.

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The comments sparked discussion in the college football world, especially regarding whether Texas has been avoiding a future matchup with Texas Tech. Sports analyst Todd Fuhrman weighed in on the controversy and questioned whether Sarkisian’s confidence truly matches Texas’ scheduling approach.

“They kind of back that up,” Fuhrman said. “We’ve talked about Texas Tech for a little while about their schedule and lack of strength that they’ll encounter being more than a double-digit favorite in all their games even without Brandon Sorsby. But look if Sark wants to do all of this, Sark needs to make sure that he goes out of his way to give Texas Tech the opportunity to schedule a non-conference game.

“Because I’ve spoken to people in Lubbock and said that they’ve done everything they can to try and get Texas on their non-conference schedule and go figure the burnt orange will not return their phone call.”

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Sarkisian never directly mentioned Texas Tech by name, but many immediately assumed the comments were aimed at the Red Raiders because of their current standing in the Big 12 and their comparatively lighter schedule. Texas Tech finished the 2025 regular season with just one loss while avoiding many big opponents outside conference play.

Meanwhile, Texas faced a far tougher slate after moving into the SEC, including high-profile clashes against powerhouse programs such as Ohio State. The Longhorns were unable to reach the 10-win mark during the 2025 season and missed the College Football Playoff.

Texas fans have largely defended Sarkisian’s comments, saying that the Longhorns consistently schedule elite opponents and therefore have earned the right to speak about schedule strength. However, Sarkisian’s latest remarks have only intensified tensions between the two programs, and any future game between Texas and Texas Tech would now carry even more drama and rivalry energy.

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