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After USC-Texas Tech football talks fizzle, here's Tech's thinking - Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
USC backed out of their scheduled football series with Texas Tech, leaving the Red Raiders without marquee opponents for the 2027 and 2028 seasons. Tech athletic officials confirmed Wednesday that extensive discussions for two matchups against Southern California fell through.
Tech athletic officials confirmed Wednesday that extensive discussions for two matchups against Southern California fell through. The Trojans reportedly initiated the cancellation, pulling out of planned games set for Houston in 2027 and Las Vegas in 2028. This unexpected decision forces the Red Raiders to find new Power Four non-conference opponents on a much shorter timeline than usual, a difficult task in college football scheduling.
For folks here on the Caprock, especially those who bleed scarlet and black from Tech Terrace to Raintree, this means the future non-conference slate might look a little less exciting. Losing a chance to play a national brand like USC is a real setback for Tech's program, impacting national visibility and future recruiting cycles. Landing comparable opponents on such short notice is a major challenge for Kirby Hocutt's athletic department, particularly for a program trying to build momentum.
Securing a high-profile, home-and-home opponent typically involves negotiating contracts five to ten years in advance.