Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire has publicly challenged Texas to a Week 1 matchup, responding to comments made by Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian about the Red Raiders’ schedule strength. Sarkisian, speaking at the Houston Touchdown Club, suggested a Texas team composed of backups could go undefeated against Texas Tech’s slate. McGuire, taking issue with the slight, confirmed that both Abilene Christian and Texas State—scheduled opponents for Texas Tech and Texas—are willing to back out of their games so the two rivals could face off instead. He also mentioned a potential neutral-site game at AT&T Stadium if Texas refuses to travel to Lubbock.

The exchange comes amid heightened expectations for both programs in the 2026 season. Texas, despite finishing 9-3 and missing the College Football Playoff, remains a top contender. Texas Tech, meanwhile, won the Big 12 and earned a first-round CFP bye last season, though they were shut out by Oregon in the Orange Bowl. The Red Raiders’ 2026 nonconference schedule lacks a Power Four opponent, fueling Sarkisian’s critique.

Texas and Texas Tech have a long-standing rivalry, having met over 70 times. McGuire previously led Texas Tech to an upset over Texas in Lubbock in 2022, but the Longhorns won decisively in their most recent meeting. With both teams eyeing playoff runs, a Week 1 clash could serve as a major statement game.