Texas AD Sends Strong Message With Six-Word Statement Refusing to Move Ohio State Game: “We Don’t Bow to Their Demands”

In a bold and unwavering stance that has fans buzzing and college football insiders reeling, University of Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte delivered a clear message regarding the high-stakes, much-anticipated matchup between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes. When pressed about why Texas refused to reschedule the game—despite significant pressure from Ohio State and behind-the-scenes maneuvering—Del Conte offered a sharp, six-word explanation that sent shockwaves through the college football world: “We don’t bow to their demands.”

The six-word declaration was more than just a soundbite—it was a clear signal that Texas isn’t backing down from anyone, not even a program as historically powerful as Ohio State. Fans of the Longhorns erupted on social media, praising Del Conte’s no-nonsense response as a symbol of Texas pride, independence, and rising football dominance.

The Texas–Ohio State game, slated for the 2025 season, has long been circled on calendars as one of the biggest non-conference clashes of the year. It pits two blue-blood programs against each other in a battle with serious College Football Playoff implications. But in recent months, rumblings surfaced that Ohio State was seeking to adjust the date, reportedly due to logistical concerns and internal scheduling conflicts.

According to multiple sources, Ohio State made informal and formal overtures, hoping Texas would agree to move the game to a later date. Del Conte and the Texas athletic department reportedly reviewed the request but ultimately chose to hold their ground.

And when asked by reporters during a recent media availability why Texas refused to budge, Del Conte didn’t mince words. His six-word response instantly became the headline.

Del Conte’s reply resonated for more than just its defiance—it embodied the spirit of Texas’ transition into the SEC, a league where toughness, tradition, and asserting one’s identity are essential. For years, critics accused Texas of fading relevance, but in recent seasons, under head coach Steve Sarkisian and a revitalized program, the Longhorns have reestablished themselves as contenders on the national stage.

Now, with Texas joining the SEC and recruiting at an elite level, this standoff with Ohio State isn’t just a scheduling spat—it’s a statement of identity.

“We were asked to adjust. We considered it. But in the end, we made it clear: Texas doesn’t play second fiddle to anyone,” an unnamed source within the UT athletic department told local media. “This program is built on pride, history, and power—and we won’t be maneuvered.”

As soon as Del Conte’s comment went public, the Texas fan base lit up with support. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Longhorn fans praised their AD for holding firm.

Another added: “That six-word line should be on T-shirts tomorrow. Del Conte just won the hearts of Texas fans everywhere.”

Indeed, merchandise companies and fan forums quickly picked up on the phrase. Within hours, mock-ups of shirts with “We Don’t Bow to Their Demands” in burnt orange flooded fan pages.

Although Texas and Ohio State aren’t traditional rivals, this public friction has added a new layer of tension to their upcoming battle. With both programs expected to be top-10 teams entering the matchup, the narrative has shifted. It’s no longer just about football. It’s about pride, respect, and control.

Ohio State has yet to publicly respond to Del Conte’s remarks, but insiders suggest they were surprised—and perhaps irritated—by the Texas AD’s candor. One anonymous Big Ten official noted, “We didn’t expect this to go public in such a bold way. It’s clear Texas is making a statement, and it’ll only add more fuel to the fire when these two meet.”

While this incident might seem like a mere footnote in the grander scheme of college football, it speaks volumes about the shifting power dynamics in the sport. Texas, once seen as a sleeping giant, is wide awake—and not afraid to ruffle feathers.

Del Conte’s six words weren’t just directed at Ohio State. They were aimed at anyone who still doubts that Texas has reclaimed its voice on the national stage.

In a sport increasingly driven by media narratives, conference realignment, and boardroom politics, Del Conte’s blunt statement was refreshingly old-school. It echoed the kind of toughness and bravado that used to define college football—before NIL deals and TV contracts complicated the game.

For Texas fans, it’s a moment to rally behind. For Ohio State, it’s a challenge they can’t ignore. And for the rest of the country, it’s a reminder that when it comes to college football’s biggest stages, Texas isn’t just showing up—they’re drawing the line in the sand.