Big 12 unveils football scheduling matrix for 2024-27

A new era of Big 12 football is set to kick off in the 2024 season. As Texas and Oklahoma move out of the conference, four new schools will be welcomed in. Four others are debuting this year, making for a completely different look moving forward with 16 teams.

On Wednesday, the Big 12 released its future scheduling matrix. Opponents, home and away, for the 2024 through 2027 season have been released. The Big 12 is opting to remain with nine conference games but instead of a round-robin, there will be a bit more complicated of a system.

The Big 12 will have just four protected rivalries moving forward. Arizona–Arizona State, BYU–Utah (also known as the Holy War), Baylor–TCU, and Kansas–Kansas State (also known as the Sunflower Showdown) will be played on an annual basis. All four are in-state contests they deeply care about and have been running for quite some time.

From there, no exact system to determine the schedule was used. Teams will alternate having five games at home or on the road.

You can check out the entire football scheduling matrix here.

Along with the scheduling matrix release, commissioner Brett Yormark released a statement. He thanked Big 12 members for working with them while they attempted to make the model work. Yormark is happy to see the protected rivalries but emphasized competitive balance across the board.

“As we look towards the future of this Conference, we are thrilled to introduce the first football scheduling matrix for the new-look Big 12,” Yormark said. “I’m grateful to our membership for their support throughout the scheduling process.

“In this model, competitive balance and student-athlete wellness was prioritized. Rivalries will be protected and new matchups will be introduced – the excitement and parity this Conference is known for will continue for years to come.”

The Big 12 Championship will not see any changes, still taking place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. Maybe one of the new-look teams will make their way down to the Lone Star State, while long-time members will be vying for the trophy.

Of course, the 12-team playoff expansion should be beneficial for the Big 12 as well. Depending on who wins the Big 12, they could receive an automatic spot in the College Football Playoff. A big season is ahead of the conference and releasing the scheduling matrix was just the beginning.