The Texas Tech Red Raiders took their undefeated record to Tempe to take on 4-2 Arizona State in a Big 12 clash that had major implications. The Red Raiders were looking to solidify themselves as the team to beat in the Big 12, while Arizona State was looking to slow down Tech’s momentum and get themselves back into the league race. And what a game we got in Arizona, as a back-and-forth fourth quarter ended with Arizona State’s 26-22 win. The victory gives Arizona State it’s first win vs. an AP Top 10 opponent since they beat No. 6 Oregon on November 23rd, 2019.
An Unforgettable Fourth Quarter
This was a heavy-weight fight between the reigning Big 12 Champions against the heavy favorites in 2025, six games in. And after Arizona State tacked on the only seven points of the third quarter, the Sun Devils entered the fourth quarter with a 16-7 lead. Then, the fireworks began in the final minutes. Arizona State lead 19-7, but Tech’s offense woke up, in part thanks to strong special teams. Tech had an 11-play, 48-yard drive that cut the lead to 19-14. Then, after forcing a three-and-out, and a great punt return, Tech was in business at the ASU 12-yard line. Will Hammond connected with Reggie Virgil in the corner of the end zone for a score and Tech was up 21-19 with two minutes to play. But Sam Leavitt said, “Hold my beer.” Texas Tech went 75 yards in 10 plays, only taking 1:26 off the clock, and Raleek Brown punched it in from one yard out to give Arizona State the 26-22 lead with :33 seconds remaining. Texas Tech’s Hail Mary came up short as the Sun Devils walked away with a win.
Texas Tech is Human
As I said in my Big 12 Week 8 preview and prediction show (please subscribe on YouTube or Podcast by searching Heartland College Sports), I was going to ride Texas Tech until proven otherwise. And some of the Tech faithful told me to be careful. Well, they were right. But this game was more about a great game plan from Arizona State that included owning Time of Possession (38-22), which worn down Tech’s defense, and was noticeable on the final ASU drive. And Arizona State’s defense kept back up quarterback Will Hammond in check, especially in the first half when he struggled mightily. But for the Red Raiders, after essentially being crowned a College Football Playoff lock by many, myself included, they wouldn’t even make the Big 12 Championship Game if the season ended today. It’s back to Square One.
Sam The Man
Arizona State welcomed back quarterback Sam Leavitt from an injury that caused him to miss the blowout loss to Utah last week. And Leavitt would likely be the first one to tell you he has not lived up to the preseason expectations so far. He was bad on the road in a loss to Mississippi State, and even in wins over TCU and Baylor, he was not having the kind of early season most of us expected. Well, that all changed on Saturday. Sam Leavitt was able to work his magic throughout the game, finishing 28/47 for 319 yards and one touchdown. Leavitt re-established himself as the top signal caller in the league, and if you had to win one game today in this conference, he’s your guy, hands down. He proved as much on Saturday afternoon in the upset of Texas Tech.
