In recent times, we've seen a noticeable trend among SEC powerhouses opting out of challenging non-conference matchups. The Alabama Crimson Tide, for instance, has already nixed a home-and-home series with the West Virginia Mountaineers slated for 2026 and 2027, and it seems likely they'll do the same with their series against the Ohio State Buckeyes.
The Georgia Bulldogs have also backed out of a 2033/2034 series with the NC State Wolfpack, and the Texas Longhorns have pulled the plug on a 2032/2033 matchup with the Arizona State Sun Devils.
Next on the chopping block could be the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, potentially losing a major series with an SEC team.
According to Notre Dame writer Nick Shepkowski, the Longhorns might cancel their 2028/2029 series with the Irish. Shepkowski argues that Texas shouldn’t shoulder all the blame for opting for easier opponents. He points to the defending national champion Indiana Hoosiers, who played a relatively soft non-conference schedule against teams like Old Dominion, Indiana State, and Kennesaw State before going on a 16-0 run to clinch the title.
Shepkowski notes, "It's hard to argue with the formula. While fans may dislike seeing fewer marquee games, the drive to make the playoff is paramount."
Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has cited last season's Week 1 game against Ohio State at the "Shoe" as a factor in missing the 2025/2026 CFP field. This suggests a reluctance to engage in high-risk matchups like those against Notre Dame, even if Sarkisian's future in Austin isn't guaranteed through 2028.
The rationale behind these decisions is understandable, given how losses can weigh more heavily than wins in the playoff equation. Yet, it's undeniably disappointing for fans craving those big-time clashes. Both realities coexist in this evolving landscape of college football scheduling.