The 2026 football season is still a long way off, but the Colorado Buffaloes are already facing a daunting challenge. The defending Big 12 champion Texas Tech Red Raiders have emerged as the most formidable opponent on their schedule. Despite falling to Oregon in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinals just under a month ago, Texas Tech has made significant moves to reload for next season.

The Red Raiders have secured one of the top-10 transfer portal classes in the nation, highlighted by the addition of former Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby. Head coach Joey McGuire has also built what is widely considered the best 2026 recruiting class in the Big 12, with eight four- and five-star commits according to 247Sports. This combination of talent and strategy positions Texas Tech as a serious contender for the conference title.

Texas Tech’s dominance last season was evident, as all 12 of their wins came by multiple scores. With their revamped roster and strong financial backing, the Red Raiders are expected to be early favorites in the Big 12. Their robust donor base gives them an edge in the NIL era, ensuring they can continue to attract top-tier talent for years to come.

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders acknowledged Texas Tech’s strength during a conversation last summer. “Joey’s got some money!” Sanders said. “He’s spending that money! I love it. Once upon a time, you guys were talking junk about me going in that portal. Now, when everybody goes in the portal, it’s OK. It’s cool when they do it, but it’s a problem when I do it.”

Sanders praised McGuire, calling him one of the best coaches in the conference. “I love me some Joey McGuire, one of the best coaches in our conference. I’ve seen him excel from high school all the way to where he is now, and he’s a winner. I absolutely love it. I love him because he’s a man of standard.”

While Colorado’s season opener against Georgia Tech and a November trip to Arizona State will be tough challenges, Texas Tech’s dominant offseason gives them the advantage as the Buffaloes’ toughest 2026 opponent. Fortunately, Colorado will have home-field advantage against the Red Raiders on October 3.

Other Texas Tech Transfers To Know



Looking at Texas Tech’s revamped roster, several incoming transfers are worth noting. Defensive lineman Mateen Ibirogba from Wake Forest, offensive lineman Jordan Church from Louisville, wide receiver Malcolm Simmons from Auburn, and defensive end Adam Trick from Miami of Ohio are all expected to make an impact.

Although the Red Raiders lost some key players to the transfer portal, their additions far outweigh their departures. This balance ensures that Texas Tech remains a powerhouse heading into the 2026 season.

Colorado’s 2026 Regular Season Schedule

The Buffaloes’ 12-game regular season schedule next fall features an even split of home and road games, including nonconference trips to Georgia Tech and Northwestern. Here is the full schedule:

• At Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (September 5)
• Vs. Weber State Wildcats (September 12)
• At Northwestern Wildcats (September 19)
• At Baylor Bears (September 26)
• Vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders (October 3)
• Vs. Utah Utes (October 17)
• At Oklahoma State Cowboys (October 24)
• Vs. Kansas State Wildcats (October 31)
• At Arizona State Sun Devils (November 7)
• Vs. Houston Cougars (November 14)
• At Cincinnati Bearcats (November 21)
• Vs. UCF Knights (November 28)

Deion Sanders has made several changes to the Colorado roster, including new rules for the team. He has also overhauled the defensive line after losing key commitments. Meanwhile, the men’s basketball team recently faced a tough loss to the UCF Knights.