Texas Tech Is Willing To PAY To Play Texas Week 1, And Steve Sarkisian Has To Answer

Did you catch what went down at the Big 12's spring meetings? Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire threw down the gauntlet in an all-time call-out, telling everyone the Red Raiders would absolutely LOVE to play Steve Sarkisian's Texas Longhorns in Week 1. They're not just talking either; they're offering to buy out their scheduled games to make it happen!

Sarkisian's 'Twos and Threes' Comment Got Real

This incredible saga started because Texas coach Steve Sarkisian got loose with his lips. He's been making headlines, basically torching Texas Tech's strength of schedule. He told a crowd Texas's schedule was way tougher than the Red Raiders'. Sarkisian even suggested if his Longhorns played with their "twos and threes," their second and third-string players, they could still go undefeated against Texas Tech's schedule. He then took it up a notch, saying Texas Tech would "probably make the CFP this year" with that alleged easy road. That's serious trash talk! And it's not the only controversy Sarkisian has waltzed into, either. He also suggested Ole Miss had lax academic requirements, making it easier for them to lure transfers by letting them "major in basket weaving." Wild, right?

McGuire Just Dropped the Week 1 Bomb

Well, Joey McGuire clearly wasn't amused by Sarkisian's schedule jab. So, what's a Red Raiders coach to do when his program gets publicly disrespected? He challenged Sarkisian to back up those wild words on the field! McGuire told reporters Thursday that Texas Tech is not only ready to play Texas, but they would "love to play Texas." He's even offered to buy out their games against Texas State and Abilene Christian to clear the schedule for a Week 1 showdown. Talk about putting your money where your mouth is! It gets crazier: Texas Tech board of regents member Cody Campbell has already been talking to Stephen Jones, the Dallas Cowboys CEO, about potentially hosting this epic clash right there at AT&T Stadium. Campbell publicly stated that Tech Athletics would pay the buyout for both games. McGuire put it perfectly, saying the best way to test Sarkisian's hypothesis is to do it on the field. He added, "We'll find out if their twos and threes can win in this conference."

What Happens Now? The Ball's In Sarkisian's Court

So, here we are. Joey McGuire and Texas Tech have laid out the red carpet, offered to pay the freight, and are ready to test Sarkisian's bravado in Week 1. This isn't just about scheduling; it's about pride and proving a point. Will Sarkisian accept the challenge? Will he let his "twos and threes" face the Red Raiders, or will he duck this direct confrontation? The entire college football world is watching, and the pressure is squarely on Texas to respond. This could be one of the most talked-about opening weekend games in recent memory if it happens, and we can't wait to see if Sarkisian truly believes his own hype!

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.