With the landscape of college football shifting dramatically in recent years, Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire floated the idea of moving bowl games to Week 1, per Justin Margolius.
During a press conference, McGuire suggested that opening the year with bowl matchups could boost fan interest, improve TV ratings, and give programs a marquee game to start the season. While the idea remains speculative, it reflects the broader rethinking of college football’s calendar in a rapidly evolving era.
“You’re going to lose a home game,” McGuire said. “But you still would have a huge attraction, TV-wise it would be a big watch cause everybody is dying for college football Week 1.”
The Red Raiders finished the season with a 12-1 record, earning the No. 4 overall seed and a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff. Texas Tech claimed the Big 12 title with a victory over BYU in the conference championship game.
The 2025 season stands as one of Texas Tech’s winningest campaigns, highlighted by a conference championship and a top-four playoff seeding. It’s the first time the Red Raiders have qualified for the College Football Playoff, with a national title still in reach as postseason play begins.
As Texas Tech looks ahead to next season, Margolius reported, “With the Big 12 looking to move toward a requirement that schools schedule a Power Four opponent in non-conference play, Texas Tech is working towards scheduling a home game next year against NC State.”
The Red Raiders are set to face the winner of the matchup between No. 5 Oregon and No. 12 James Madison.
