The Texas Tech Red Raiders have released the Big 12 portion of their 2012 schedule even though the conference hasn't yet confirmed the final slate, according to Daniel Walker of CBS Sports.

The university site has Tech playing at Oklahoma State on Sept. 29, at TCU on October 6, hosting West Virginia on Oct. 20, at Iowa State on Oct. 27, hosting Kansas on Nov. 3, hosting Oklahoma on Nov. 10, at Kansas State on Nov. 17, hosting Baylor on Nov. 24, and hosting Texas on Dec. 1.

Here's the complete Texas Tech schedule for next season:

What It Means

For any fan, there are some immediate thoughts that come to mind when looking at the reported schedule. First, the four-game road swing during the season's first half will be a tough task for the Red Raiders. Second, finishing with four out of five games at home is a nice advantage to have.

Otherwise there aren't many surprises on the schedule. Texas Tech gets to welcome conference newcomers TCU and West Virginia with early clashes as they look to rebound from a campaign that saw the team go 2-7 in conference play.

All told, it's a pretty difficult schedule for the Red Raiders, but you aren't going to find cupcake schedules in the Big 12.

What Happens Next?

National Signing Day is a thing of the past and spring practices are right around the corner, so there isn't any time to rest if Texas Tech wants to be a contender next season. There's a lot of work to do before they reach that point, though.

The schedule certainly doesn't make it easier, but they need to look at the positives. Seth Doege was impressive in his first season as the starting quarterback and a good recruiting class should provide a boost to the team's porous defense. Defensive end Michael Starts is especially intriguing.

There's no doubt that Texas Tech faces an uphill battle heading into the 2012 season, but at least now the Red Raiders know the road they'll have to travel to reach a bowl game.