This week, both BYU and Utah received their Big 12 football schedules for the 2026 season, prompting a flurry of debate among fans and analysts eager to evaluate the challenges ahead for their favorite teams. The excitement for college football is palpable, even as supporters grapple with the complexities of the upcoming matchups.
Early assessments suggest that Texas Tech may have the easiest path, as they will not face either Utah or BYU during the regular season. This situation could serve as a strategic advantage for the Red Raiders. However, the historical context of these matchups often clouds such predictions, especially given Tech’s previous dominance over both teams. Meanwhile, fans of BYU might find comfort in the belief that Utah faces a more rugged schedule due to their mandatory encounter with BYU, a rivalry that always carries heavy stakes and pressure.
Utah’s 2026 slate includes several key matchups: they will open their season with three home games at Rice-Eccles Stadium, facing Idaho, Arkansas, and Utah State. Their challenge continues with a road game against Iowa State before a bye week, followed by a mix of home and away games against teams like Kansas, Colorado, and BYU. Notably, Utah will battle BYU at Rice-Eccles on November 7, which has raised eyebrows among fans who believe the game should be strategically placed at the end of the season to highlight its significance.
This year’s scheduling decision has sparked discussions about how to better showcase one of college football’s fiercest rivalries. The importance of the Utah-BYU game is often overshadowed by its mid-season placement, rather than being celebrated as a pinnacle event that could energize the entire Big 12 conference. The enthusiasm from such rivalries is invaluable for fostering a competitive spirit and fan engagement.
As for BYU, their schedule features a series of home games, including notable contests against Utah Tech and Iowa State, alongside a matchup with Notre Dame that promises significant national attention. BYU’s ability to play several games at home will undoubtedly bolster their chances, as playing in Provo is always a formidable task for visiting teams.
Ultimately, the question of which team has the more challenging schedule may be difficult to answer. With the ever-changing landscape of college football—affected by factors like the transfer portal, new coaches, and especially NIL deals—predicting team performances becomes increasingly complex. The unpredictability of the Big 12 means that teams like BYU and Utah could face unforeseen challenges or opportunities throughout the season.
In the grand scheme of things, the anticipation surrounding the upcoming season is a reminder of the unpredictable essence of college football. As teams prepare to navigate their schedules, fans can take solace in the promise of exciting matchups, fierce rivalries, and the potential for surprises that make the sport so compelling.