LUBBOCK — The atmosphere outside the stadium was electric, with dedicated fans camping out for days, a chance for a life-changing field goal, and even a surprise appearance by Patrick Mahomes. Following the buzz from ESPN”s College GameDay, the Texas Tech Red Raiders made a resounding statement on Saturday, defeating the previously unbeaten BYU Cougars 26-7 at Jones AT&T Stadium in front of 60,229 fans. This victory cements their position as contenders for both the Big 12 Championship and a potential berth in the College Football Playoff.
With an 8-1 overall record and a 6-1 record in the conference, Texas Tech is now tied with BYU and Cincinnati at the top of the standings, all having one conference loss. This win gives the Red Raiders the crucial head-to-head tiebreaker over BYU, which could prove pivotal as the Cougars and Bearcats prepare to clash on November 22 for a spot in the conference title game. Texas Tech”s remaining schedule includes matchups against West Virginia and UCF, both of whom are fighting for bowl eligibility.
Quarterback Behren Morton was instrumental in the victory, throwing the game”s only touchdown pass late in the first quarter. His 10-yard pass to wide receiver Caleb Douglas in the end zone extended Texas Tech”s lead to 10-0. Morton had previously connected with wide receiver Coy Eakin for a crucial 37-yard play that helped sustain a 92-yard drive, marking a turnaround after a sluggish start that saw the Red Raiders gain negative 24 yards on their first two possessions.
Despite a shaky start, Texas Tech managed to capitalize on mistakes made by BYU”s special teams, which included a shanked punt and a missed field goal in the opening quarter. Kicker Stone Harrington converted all four of his field goal attempts, scoring from distances of 47, 39, 29, 27, and 34 yards, which accounted for more than half of Texas Tech”s points.
The Red Raiders showcased their defensive prowess, holding BYU to its lowest scoring output in over two years, not allowing a touchdown until the fourth quarter. Freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier was limited to just one passing yard in the first quarter and struggled to find his rhythm throughout the game, finishing with a mere 43 yards in the second quarter.
Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez led the defensive effort with 14 tackles, an interception, and a fumble recovery that set up another scoring opportunity for Texas Tech. The defensive front, anchored by defensive end Romello Height and linebacker David Bailey, effectively disrupted BYU”s offensive schemes, contributing to the Cougars” struggles throughout the contest.
While Texas Tech”s first half was not without its faults, including a questionable decision to go for it on fourth down instead of kicking a field goal, Morton”s ability to make plays and keep drives alive proved crucial. He completed 17 of 32 passes for 219 yards, demonstrating resilience even in the face of being sacked four times.
This victory serves not only as a significant milestone for Texas Tech but also as a warning to other teams in the conference about their capabilities as they push toward the playoffs.
