The Battle for Better Football: A Fan's Perspective
In a recent development that has sparked controversy, Texas has decided to cancel its highly anticipated home-and-home series against Arizona State, scheduled for the 2032 and 2033 seasons. This move has left many fans, including On3's Andy Staples, feeling disappointed and concerned.
"Here's the crux of the issue," Staples emphasizes. "As consumers, we should strive for excellence and not settle for mediocrity. Yet, some college football fanbases seem content with accepting lower-quality games, and that's a worrying trend."
The cancellation of this series is part of a larger pattern, with several non-conference matchups between strong teams being slashed recently. It raises questions about the future of competitive college football and the choices teams make regarding their schedules.
"But here's where it gets interesting," Staples continues. "When we look at Texas' future schedule, they've lined up some formidable non-conference opponents like Ohio State, Michigan, and Notre Dame. Arizona State, on the other hand, will face Texas A&M, LSU, and now Stanford. So, why the sudden shift towards 'cupcake' games for Texas?"
The Texas-Arizona State series would have been a rematch of the thrilling 2025 Peach Bowl, where Texas emerged victorious in a closely contested game. Both teams have shown impressive form recently, with Texas achieving three consecutive 10-win seasons and Arizona State winning at least eight games in back-to-back seasons.
"The future looked bright for these programs," Staples notes. "Texas' departure from the Big 12 to the SEC in 2024 and Arizona State's entry into the conference after the dissolution of the Pac-12 brought them close, but now they've missed the chance to face each other."
So, why cancel a potentially exciting series? Staples believes it's a step backward for fans who crave competitive and entertaining games.
"And this is the part most people miss," he adds. "When teams opt for easier matchups, it's not just about the on-field action. It's about the fan experience, the anticipation, and the memories created. We deserve better, and so do the players."
What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you agree that fans should advocate for high-quality games, or is there a valid reason for teams to prioritize easier matchups? Let's discuss in the comments and share our opinions on this controversial decision.
