I’ve Got to Go to Church”: Texas AD Chris Del Conte Stands Firm on Game Scheduling — And It’s More Than Just Football
In an era where college football is increasingly shaped by broadcast schedules, ratings, and commercial interests, it’s rare to hear a high-ranking athletic director prioritize something as personal — and, some might say, old-fashioned — as going to church. But that’s exactly what Texas Longhorns Athletic Director Chris Del Conte did.
When asked about his refusal to move the high-profile Texas vs. Ohio State matchup to a Sunday night slot, Del Conte gave a response that has rippled across the college football landscape:
“Why would I want to move the game to Sunday night and have a short week? I’ve got to go to church.”
It was a simple statement. Direct. Sincere. And deeply resonant.
For Del Conte, the issue wasn’t just about player recovery time or logistical hurdles, though those were certainly part of the equation. His comments suggest something deeper: a belief in preserving routine, values, and the sanctity of personal time in a profession often overrun by the demands of TV contracts and competitive pressures.
A Clash of Cultures: Football vs. Faith
In recent years, college football schedules have increasingly bled into Sunday nights, competing with the NFL for prime-time attention and audience share. The move to Sunday games, often justified by maximizing national viewership, comes with real consequences — shorter recovery weeks for athletes, tighter travel windows, and disruption to longstanding college traditions.
But for Del Conte, the line is clear. Sunday isn’t just a day after game day — it’s a day of worship, reflection, and rest. And in his world, that matters.
“I’ve got to go to church” wasn’t just a throwaway line. It was a rare moment of transparency from a major college athletics executive — a reminder that amidst the money, marketing, and mania of big-time sports, personal values still guide decision-making for some.
The Bigger Picture: Protecting the Student-Athlete Experience
Beyond his personal reasons, Del Conte’s decision reflects a broader commitment to the well-being of Texas student-athletes. A Sunday night game could mean less time for recovery, more academic disruption, and a shorter turnaround before the next week’s game. It might look good on paper for TV networks, but for players and coaches, it’s a grueling ask.
By keeping the game on Saturday, Del Conte is drawing a line — not just for himself, but for his team.
A Statement That Resonates
In a sports world where coaches and administrators often speak in corporate-safe soundbites, Del Conte’s unapologetic honesty has struck a chord. His words have been celebrated by fans who share his values, and even some critics have acknowledged the rare authenticity behind the statement.
Texas football, like everything in the Lone Star State, is more than a game. It’s community, culture, and, for some, faith. By standing firm on when — and how — his team will take the field, Chris Del Conte reminded us all that there are still things in life more important than kickoff.
