Full Breakdown
Texas Tech Secures Victory Over Kansas Amid Quarterback Injuries
10/13/2025, 4:53:04 AM
Game Overview
On October 11, 2025, the No. 9 Texas Tech Red Raiders faced the Kansas Jayhawks at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. The Red Raiders emerged victorious with a score of 42-17, marking their first 6-0 start since 2013. Texas Tech, under head coach Joey McGuire, maintained an undefeated record, while Kansas fell to 4-3 overall.
Key Events and Player Performances
Texas Tech began the game strong, quickly establishing an 18-0 lead. Quarterback Behren Morton contributed to this lead with 91 passing yards and one touchdown before exiting the game early in the second quarter due to a lower leg injury sustained during a sack by Kansas edge rusher Leroy Harris III. Morton’s injury was particularly concerning as it marked the third time this season he had to leave a game due to injury.
With Morton sidelined, redshirt freshman Will Hammond stepped in as quarterback. Despite a shaky performance initially, including an interception, Hammond managed to lead the team to victory, scoring two rushing touchdowns later in the game. Texas Tech's running back Cameron Dickey had a standout performance, rushing for a career-high 263 yards, the most by a Red Raiders running back since 1996.
Defensive Highlights
On the defensive side, Texas Tech showcased a strong performance, limiting Kansas to 17 points. However, the Red Raiders also faced injury concerns, as defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard was carted off the field in the first quarter with a lower leg injury. Coach McGuire indicated that Gill-Howard's injury was precautionary after negative X-rays.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Joey McGuire expressed frustration regarding Morton's recurring injuries, stating, “I know he’s really frustrated. We’ll see a lot more tomorrow.” He also praised Hammond's capabilities, saying, “We’re really fortunate that we have a really good quarterback room. They play off each other.”
Kansas head coach Lance Leipold acknowledged the strength of Texas Tech, noting, “That just says coach McGuire has a really good football team.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, concerns were raised about Texas Tech's discipline, as they entered the game as the most penalized team in the Big 12. Coach McGuire admitted that many penalties were self-inflicted, stating, “A lot of it is self-inflicted wounds.” This aspect could pose challenges as the season progresses.
What's Next
Texas Tech will face the defending Big 12 champion Arizona State next Saturday, while Kansas will look to regroup after this defeat. The health of both Morton and Gill-Howard will be closely monitored as they prepare for their upcoming games.
Verbatim Quotes
“I know he's really frustrated.” — Joey McGuire, Head Coach, Texas Tech
“After that first series, I said, ‘Do we need to run you, Will, to get hit so you can get going in this game?’” — Joey McGuire, Head Coach, Texas Tech
“That just says coach McGuire has a really good football team,” — Lance Leipold, Head Coach, Kansas
This game highlighted both the potential and the challenges facing Texas Tech as they navigate the season with key injuries impacting their roster.
