The 2025 college football season kicks off this weekend, and PFF College has released its latest College Football Playoff predictions.
Texas Tech stands as the lone Big 12 representative in the 12-team field and is seeded No. 10 overall, highlighting a program that has gained national traction after an impressive offseason.
Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton returns to Lubbock with momentum after a strong 2024 campaign. Named to the 2025 Golden Arm Award watchlist, Morton racked up 3,335 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions a year ago.
Now entering his fourth season as the starter, he’s poised to lead one of the conference’s most intriguing offenses.
Head coach Joey McGuire reloaded through the portal this offseason, adding some serious firepower. The Red Raiders landed Stanford pass rusher David Bailey, Texas A&M wideout Micah Hudson, and UCF defensive lineman Lee Hunter.
Bailey posted seven sacks and five forced fumbles in the ACC last season and joins a defense that ranked 15th in the conference in 2024. The Red Raiders’ defensive unit struggled, allowing 34.8 points per contest.
Morton will once again team up with wide receiver Caleb Douglas, who emerged as a go-to target in 2024. Douglas finished with 60 catches for 877 yards and is well-positioned to cross the 1,000-yard mark this fall.
However, running back Quinten Joyner, a high-profile addition from the portal, suffered a season-ending injury before Week 1.
Texas Tech opens the season at home on Saturday, Aug. 30, against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
According to PFF’s bracket, the Red Raiders are projected to face No. 7 seed Ohio State in the first round of the playoff, with the Buckeyes expected to win that matchup.
Meanwhile, PFF has Clemson taking home the national title after knocking off the Texas Longhorns in the championship game.
