BYU dominated Texas Tech with a 27-14 win in Provo, Utah. Kedon Slovis threw for 127 yards and two touchdowns, while BYU’s defense forced five turnovers. Despite gaining only 277 yards, BYU never trailed. LJ Martin rushed for 93 yards on 10 carries. Texas Tech’s Jake Strong threw for 236 yards and a touchdown but had three interceptions in his debut start. Tahj Brooks contributed 105 yards rushing and a touchdown, but turnovers plagued Texas Tech, leading to their first loss in Utah despite gaining 389 yards and converting 9-of-18 third downs.
Xavier White of the Red Raiders emphasized the importance of their entire offensive unit, stressing the need to execute routine plays and give maximum effort on every play to ensure their unstoppable potential. Meanwhile, BYU capitalized on three turnovers in the first half alone, converting them into 13 points from five takeaways. The Cougars also made significant offensive plays before halftime, allowing them to take an early lead over Texas Tech. Recently, the Red Raiders have struggled with turnovers, totaling eight in their last two games. Despite the challenges, Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire acknowledged his team’s persistence but expressed frustration over their performance, particularly in the locker room. BYU’s early successes included a 55-yard run by Martin on their second play, setting up a 3-yard touchdown catch by Chase Roberts, followed by Eddie Heckard recovering a fumble in the end zone to extend the Cougars’ lead to 14-0.
The Red Raiders scored in the second quarter when White caught a long pass along the sideline and sprinted 72 yards for a touchdown. BYU responded with a 4-yard touchdown catch by Darius Lassiter and a 35-yard field goal from Will Ferrin, increasing their lead to 24-7 by halftime.
In their two Big 12 losses, BYU struggled early, being outscored 28-7 in the first quarter.
Lassiter emphasized the importance of starting games faster, noting that they often start slow and create difficulties for themselves. He praised their fast start in the latest game.
Texas Tech: Despite moving the ball effectively early on, turnovers prevented the Red Raiders from converting drives into points.
BYU: Overcoming their tendency for slow starts, BYU performed well in the first half with a strong defense and efficient offense, giving them an early lead.
BYU used turnovers to secure a 27-14 victory over Texas Tech in a game where Kedon Slovis threw for 127 yards and two touchdowns. Despite BYU’s lower offensive yardage, they capitalized on five turnovers from Texas Tech, including three interceptions from Jake Strong. LJ Martin contributed 93 rushing yards, helping BYU maintain control throughout the game.Two Texas Tech players allegedly spat at BYU defensive end Tyler Batty during Saturday night’s game. Jayden York was ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct in the second quarter after spitting at Batty. Following the game’s final play, Caleb Rogers reportedly cursed and spat at Batty, according to Batty’s statements to reporters.The junior remained undisturbed by the hostility.
“They seemed pretty upset throughout the game,” Batty commented. “We’ll capitalize on that.”
Texas Tech will face TCU on November 2nd.
