Texas Tech head coach Joey Maguire has waded into the row over USC's sparsely attended home opener, using it to promote his own team's upcoming sold-out fixture in Lubbock. USC hosted San Jose State at the LA Coliseum on a scorching, humid Saturday at noon, prompting widespread criticism after many fans stayed away, a decision that reignited debate about kickoff scheduling and attendance across college football. The episode has drawn attention away from other significant early-season storylines, such as LSU's roster overhaul under Lane Kiffin.

Maguire told reporters on Monday that, while he respected USC and coach Lincoln Riley, he was looking forward to playing before 60,000 fans in similarly hot conditions this weekend, framing West Texas supporters as tougher and more committed. In fact, Lubbock's forecast of 92°F with lower humidity and a 4pm kickoff should prove milder than LA's conditions, and unlike USC fans, Texas Tech supporters have little choice but to endure the heat since poor weather persists throughout the season. By contrast, USC fans have more comfortable alternatives, such as a 72°F forecast for the Trojans' Friday night game against Fresno State.