By : Ethan Horner (Photo/Sabri Haidar-The Mojo Network)
The BYU Cougars are heading to the Big 12 Championship for the first time in program history, capping off an impressive 11–1 regular season that firmly placed them in the national conversation. Their reward: a highly anticipated rematch with the Texas Tech Red Raiders—a showdown loaded with playoff implications, revenge storylines, and the chance to secure the program’s first-ever berth in the College Football Playoff.
When these teams met earlier in the season, Texas Tech controlled the game from start to finish, rolling to a 29–7 victory despite settling for five field goals. The Red Raiders didn’t dominate with explosive plays, but instead with efficiency—particularly on third down, where they consistently extended drives and kept BYU’s offense on the sideline. If Texas Tech wants to bring home its first Big 12 title in school history, replicating that formula will be essential once again.
For BYU, the game plan begins with getting star running back LJ Martin going early. The junior running back, who has emerged as one of the top rushers in the conference with 1,134 yards on the year, was held in check the last time these teams met, managing just 35 yards on 10 carries. The Cougars know that establishing the run not only opens up their full offensive playbook but also helps control the tempo—something they never achieved in the first matchup. Martin will be a focal point from the opening snap.
Both teams enter Arlington with everything on the line. The message is simple: win, and you’re in. The stakes don’t get bigger, and neither does the stage.