Texas Tech Crushes BYU 26-7, Strengthens Playoff Position

UPDATE: In a commanding performance, the No. 8 Texas Tech Red Raiders decisively defeated No. 7 BYU 26-7 on November 4, 2023, at Jones AT&T Stadium, solidifying their status as a serious contender for the College Football Playoff. With an electrifying crowd of 60,229 fans in attendance, the Red Raiders showcased their strength in a game that could redefine their season.

The victory not only enhances Texas Tech’s playoff chances but also positions them at the top of the Big 12 standings alongside BYU and Cincinnati, each with one conference loss. The Red Raiders’ triumph gives them a crucial head-to-head tiebreaker over BYU, vital as they aim for a spot in the Big 12 Championship game.

Quarterback Behren Morton was pivotal, throwing the game’s only touchdown pass just 21 seconds before the first-quarter buzzer. His connection with wide receiver Caleb Douglas for a stunning one-footed touchdown catch set the tone for the afternoon. Morton completed 17 of 32 passes for 219 yards, effectively leading the team through a challenging start where they initially struggled with offensive momentum.

Texas Tech’s defense, ranked as the highest in the nation by Pro Football Focus, was relentless against a BYU offense that had averaged 35.8 points per game. They limited the Cougars to just seven points, allowing their first touchdown only in the fourth quarter. Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez was a standout with 14 tackles, an interception, and a fumble recovery that contributed to Texas Tech’s dominance.

The Red Raiders’ special teams also made a significant impact, with kicker Stone Harrington successfully converting all five of his field goal attempts, accounting for more than half of the team’s points. Harrington’s performance included kicks from 47, 39, 29, 27, and 34 yards, marking his career-high.

As Texas Tech looks ahead, they control their destiny with matchups against West Virginia and UCF. Both teams are vying for bowl eligibility, making these games critical for the Red Raiders’ championship aspirations.

With this victory, Texas Tech has made a definitive statement in the college football landscape, igniting excitement among fans and securing their place as a formidable force in the Big 12. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the Red Raiders as they push towards a potential playoff berth.