Texas AD Chris Del Conte on Scheduling Marquee Non-Conference Opponents: “We Are the Best”

The Texas Longhorns have long prided themselves on playing against the best teams in college football. That philosophy will continue under the leadership of Athletic Director Chris Del Conte, who recently reaffirmed the program’s commitment to scheduling high-profile non-conference opponents in future seasons. In a statement that has energized the Longhorns’ fanbase, Del Conte made it clear that Texas will continue to test itself against the best.

“Our brand should play the greatest brands in college football because we are the best,” Del Conte declared.

This bold declaration underscores Texas’ ambition as it transitions into the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and looks to cement itself as a perennial championship contender. Del Conte’s commitment to marquee non-conference matchups aligns with Texas’ storied football tradition and signals that the Longhorns have no plans to shy away from national spotlight games.

A Tradition of High-Stakes Matchups

Texas has always embraced the challenge of playing premier programs outside of conference play. Over the years, the Longhorns have faced a who’s who of college football powerhouses, including Alabama, Ohio State, Notre Dame, and USC. Their non-conference scheduling philosophy has consistently been about seeking out elite competition, and Del Conte’s comments reaffirm that this approach will remain intact moving forward.

Recent and upcoming marquee non-conference matchups for Texas include:

• Alabama (2022 & 2023) – A home-and-home series that showcased Texas’ ability to compete with the nation’s elite. The Longhorns delivered a statement win in Tuscaloosa in 2023, proving their national relevance.
• Michigan (2024) – Another highly anticipated showdown against a College Football Playoff regular and one of the sport’s most dominant programs.
• Ohio State (2025 & 2026) – A massive test against the Buckeyes, ensuring Texas remains in the national conversation.
• Georgia (Future SEC Play) – Though now a conference matchup, playing the reigning powerhouse of the SEC elevates Texas’ level of competition.
• Florida, LSU, and Texas A&M (SEC Rivalries) – Consistent high-profile matchups against historic SEC programs will naturally bolster Texas’ strength of schedule.

Why Playing the Best Matters

Del Conte’s commitment to scheduling elite non-conference opponents is about more than just entertaining fans—it’s a strategic move that benefits the program in multiple ways:

1. Enhancing Texas’ National Brand

Texas is already one of the biggest brands in college football, but playing against the best ensures continued national relevance. Games against blue-blood programs like Alabama, Ohio State, and Michigan draw massive television ratings and elevate Texas’ status in the sport.

2. Strengthening Playoff Resumes

With the College Football Playoff (CFP) expanding to 12 teams, a tough non-conference schedule will be less of a risk and more of an opportunity. A high-profile win against an elite opponent early in the season can serve as a major resume booster, while a close loss won’t necessarily eliminate Texas from contention.

3. Recruiting Advantages

Recruits want to play in the biggest games on the biggest stages. By facing elite non-conference opponents year after year, Texas can offer players a premier national platform. Del Conte understands that in the modern recruiting landscape, high-stakes matchups against marquee programs are a major selling point for top high school prospects.

4. Preparing for SEC Play

Now that Texas is in the SEC, there are no easy weeks. Facing top-tier non-conference competition will help prepare the Longhorns for the grind of an SEC schedule, where they’ll regularly face teams like Georgia, Alabama, LSU, and Tennessee.

A Message of Confidence and Ambition

Del Conte’s comments exude confidence in Texas football’s future. His assertion that “we are the best” speaks to the program’s ambition—not just to compete at the highest level, but to establish itself as the premier powerhouse in college football.

This confidence is well-founded. Under head coach Steve Sarkisian, Texas has rapidly improved, making a College Football Playoff run in 2024 and proving capable of competing with the nation’s elite. With elite recruiting classes, significant investment in facilities, and the transition to the SEC, the Longhorns are positioned to become a consistent national title contender.

By doubling down on elite non-conference scheduling, Texas is sending a clear message: They are not afraid of any team, any time, anywhere.

Final Thoughts: The Longhorns Are Embracing the Challenge

Chris Del Conte’s commitment to scheduling marquee non-conference opponents isn’t just talk—it’s a reflection of Texas’ identity. The Longhorns have never been a program to take the easy road, and as they enter the SEC era, they are fully embracing the challenge of competing at the highest level.

Fans can expect more blockbuster matchups in the future, as Texas continues to chase greatness on the national stage. With a loaded roster, a top-tier coaching staff, and an AD fully committed to competition at the highest level, the Longhorns are making it clear:

They’re not just back—they’re here to dominate.