Texas Tech Faces Must-Win Showdown Against Kansas State Saturday

UPDATE: The stakes have never been higher for No. 13 Texas Tech as they prepare to face Kansas State at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Bill Snyder Family Stadium in Manhattan, Kan. The Red Raiders are desperate to snap an eight-game losing streak against the Wildcats, a rivalry that stretches back to 2016.

Texas Tech, boasting a record of 7-1 and 4-1 in the Big 12, is coming off their most successful season since 2008. However, they face a critical challenge against Kansas State, who sits at 4-4 and 3-2 in the Big 12. The last encounter on October 14, 2023, ended in a 38-21 defeat for Texas Tech, amplifying the urgency of this matchup.

A victory is crucial for the Red Raiders to maintain their hopes of clinching a spot in the Big 12 title game and the college football playoffs. With a home game against No. 10 BYU looming, a loss on Saturday could derail Texas Tech’s ambitions, forcing them to rely on other teams’ missteps.

Quarterback Behren Morton returns to lead Texas Tech after a two-week injury absence, bringing a full playbook back into action. Offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich has confirmed that Morton is fully cleared for downfield plays. Expect wide receivers Reggie Virgil and Caleb Douglas to make significant contributions with option-go routes, while Coy Eakin will focus on bubble screens and quick slants.

Despite their promising offense, Texas Tech’s running game has struggled recently. Since Cameron Dickey rushed for 263 yards against Kansas on October 11, no player has surpassed 50 rushing yards. This trend must change if they hope to overpower Kansas State.

Kansas State’s quarterback situation adds another layer of complexity. In their last matchup, standout Will Howard was substituted out for true freshman Avery Johnson, who rushed for five touchdowns. Although Johnson has evolved as a dual-threat quarterback, he remains a formidable runner. With Kansas State’s starting running back Dylan Edwards ruled out for Saturday, Johnson’s running responsibilities will increase, posing a significant challenge for Texas Tech’s defense.

This game has the potential to be a trap for Texas Tech, but Morton’s return could provide the edge they need. The first half may see the defense take on extra reps as the offense finds its rhythm. If Morton can establish a comfortable pace, the Red Raiders will shift to a vertical game, likely resulting in a high-scoring duel.

As kickoff approaches, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with anticipation. Can Texas Tech finally break their losing streak against Kansas State? The answer will have significant implications for both teams as they vie for supremacy in the Big 12.

Final score prediction: Texas Tech 37, Kansas State 29.

Stay tuned for live updates and comprehensive coverage leading up to the game.