Texas Tech Dominates BYU 26-7, Boosts Playoff Hopes

UPDATE: In a stunning display of dominance, the Texas Tech Red Raiders defeated the previously undefeated BYU Cougars 26-7 on November 4, 2023, at Jones AT&T Stadium, solidifying their position as a top contender for the College Football Playoff. The victory, witnessed by 60,229 fans, marks a pivotal moment in the Red Raiders’ season.

The win not only improves Texas Tech’s record to 8-1 overall and 6-1 in the Big 12, but also gives them a crucial head-to-head tiebreaker against BYU, as both teams now share one conference loss. This puts Texas Tech in a strong position to clinch a spot in the Big 12 Championship game.

Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton threw the game’s only touchdown pass with just 21 seconds left in the first quarter, connecting with wide receiver Caleb Douglas for a spectacular one-footed catch. This pivotal moment followed a rocky start, where the Red Raiders faced negative yardage on their first two drives.

Throughout the game, Texas Tech’s elite defense played a starring role, preventing BYU from finding the end zone until the fourth quarter. The Red Raiders held the Cougars to their lowest point total in over two years, showcasing their status as the nation’s top defense according to Pro Football Focus.

The Red Raiders’ offensive strategy included four successful field goals from kicker Stone Harrington, who made kicks from distances of 47, 39, 29, 27, and 34 yards, contributing significantly to the team’s score. His performance was a career-high and added to the pressure on BYU’s offense, which struggled to find its rhythm.

In the fourth quarter, Texas Tech running back Cameron Dickey extended the lead to 26-0 with a 1-yard touchdown run, solidifying the Red Raiders’ control over the game. BYU finally managed to score with 7:35 remaining, but it was too late to change the outcome.

The implications of this game extend beyond the scoreboard. With their strong positioning in the conference, Texas Tech is set to face West Virginia and UCF in their final games. Both teams are vying for bowl eligibility, adding extra stakes to these matchups.

Fans, players, and analysts alike are buzzing about Texas Tech’s potential playoff run. The Red Raiders have proven they can compete at the highest levels, and with the Big 12 Championship within reach, all eyes will be on their upcoming games.

As the college football season approaches its climax, Texas Tech’s decisive win against BYU has sent a clear message: they are a force to be reckoned with. Stay tuned for further updates as the playoff picture continues to unfold.