By : Izaiah Ortiz
(Photo/Aryanna Frank-Imagn Images)
Offensive Firepower vs Defensive Resilience
Texas Tech Offense: Explosive so far. Lead by Behren Morton, who has been very efficient, strong passing, multiple receiving threats.
They’ve also scored big in the first half, dominating weaker non-conference opponents. But this is their first true road test in a major conference environment.
Utah Defense: Utah will rely on their defensive front, linebackers, and secondary to slow down Tech. Their ability to pressure the quarterback and prevent big passing plays will be key.
Utah’s Ground Game / Offensive Line vs Texas Tech’s Defensive Front
Utah has done a good job running the ball, developing a strong rushing attack so far in 2025. Their offensive line has been a strength, especially in establishing both run and pass protection.
Meanwhile, Texas Tech’s defensive line has been upgraded via transfers, and they have among the best defensive front units in the Big 12 so far. If Tech can disrupt Utah’s run game, force pressure, and limit big second-level gains, they’ll have a good chance.
Quarterback Play & Turnovers
For Utah, Devon Dampier has looked good, but he’s had less high-pressure test so far. Can he maintain efficiency when facing a top pass rush and strong coverage?
For Texas Tech, Morton is playing well, already having multiple touchdowns, strong completion percentage, low turnovers. Keeping that up — especially avoiding mistakes on the road — will be crucial.
Home Field / Momentum
Utah gets the home crowd, which can help in tight moments. Also, this is a marquee Big 12 opener for both, so emotion, energy, perhaps slight nerves could play a role.
Texas Tech has also built up momentum: dominant nonconference wins, cumulative stats that look good. But this kind of environment is a step up.
Players to Watch
Here are a few difference-makers on both teams who are likely to have big impacts:
Texas Tech
Behren Morton (QB) — He’s off to a great start: a great completion percentage, 11 touchdowns and just 1 interception through three games. He’ll need to keep his poise and avoid mistakes vs. Utah’s defensive front.
J’Koby Williams (RB) — Good all-around speed, can hurt you in both the run and the pass game. If the Red Raiders can get him going, it’ll help open things up.
Skyler Gill-Howard (DL) — On the defensive side, someone who can generate pressure and disrupt clean offensive timing is going to be critical.
Utah
Devon Dampier (QB) — Dual-threat quarterback. Throwing well, running when needed. So far, no interceptions; that’s huge.
Wayshawn Parker (RB) — Key to Utah trying to balance the offense. If the run game works, it takes pressure off Dampier and opens up options.
Utes Defense — Leaders on defense who have experience and playmaking ability. Snowden’s versatility in the secondary and Barton’s instincts in the linebacker corps could make life difficult for Morton and Tech’s offense.
Who Walks out Victorious
In short: this should be very competitive game. Momentum swings are likely; this could come down to who makes fewer mistakes, who adjusts better in the second half, and who can impose their strength at the line of scrimmage.