“Yes, there’s risk involved in playing a high-level nonconference schedule, but there’s a lot of value in that win.” Sarkisian compared the value in the possible win against the Buckeyes to his team’s triumphant victory against Alabama in Tuscaloosa back in 2023. He also added that his team’s nonconference road win against Michigan in 2024 also played a part in their earning a CFP spot in the inaugural 12-team format. However, beyond 2026, it appears their nonconference scheduling remains up in the air. This year’s results, according to Sarkisian, could help provide more clarity in how to approach nonconference scheduling in the future.