Texas Tech University’s football program will begin its Big 12 conference schedule on Friday, September 18, when the Red Raiders host the No. 23 Houston Cougars at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock. The matchup follows two non‑conference games—an early‑season win over Abilene Christian on Sept. 5 and a road contest against Oregon State on Sept. 12.
Why the game matters for Lubbock fans
With Texas Tech currently ranked No. 12 in the AP poll, the Red Raiders enter the conference slate as the highest‑ranked team in the Big 12. The home game offers Lubbock residents a chance to see the nation’s top‑ranked Texas team defend its standing against an ambitious Houston squad that also earned a national ranking.
Quarterback transition
During the offseason, quarterback Brendan Sorsby departed the program after off‑field conduct led to a mutual separation from the team. While Sorsby never appeared in an official game, his exit left a vacancy at the most critical position. Will Hammond, who recovered from an ACL tear suffered in 2025, has been named the starter. Hammond saw limited action last season and is now expected to lead the offense for the first time as a full‑time starter.
How to watch and attend
Tickets for the Friday night contest are limited, and the university encourages fans to purchase them promptly. Attendees are asked to wear black to show support for the Red Raiders. For those unable to secure tickets, the game will be televised nationally on FOX, with a kickoff time of 7 p.m. Local sports bars in Lubbard and surrounding communities are expected to host viewing parties.
What’s at stake
The game serves as a litmus test for Texas Tech’s ability to maintain its top‑ten status as the season progresses. A win would reinforce the Red Raiders’ claim to the Big 12 crown, while a loss could open the conference race to other contenders. Houston, meanwhile, looks to improve its own standing and prove it can compete with the league’s best.
Looking ahead
After the Houston game, Texas Tech’s schedule returns to non‑conference play before the remainder of the Big 12 slate begins in late September. Fans can follow the Red Raiders’ progress through the university’s athletic website and local media outlets for updates on ticket availability, game recaps, and player news.
For more information on the upcoming game, including ticket links and broadcast details, visit the Texas Tech athletics site.
Original reporting: News/Talk 790 KFYO (Lubbock) — read the source article.
