Arizona State vs Texas Tech: Big 12 Football Showdown Recap
The recent matchup between Arizona State vs Texas Tech in college football sparked widespread attention as fans witnessed a gripping battle between two rising programs. This game was not only important for the 2024 season but also marked Arizona State’s entry into the Big 12 Conference. With fierce competition, strategic plays, and standout performances, this clash left a strong impression on both fanbases.
In this article, we will break down the entire game, including team strategies, quarter-by-quarter summaries, individual player highlights, and what this matchup means for both teams moving forward.
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Arizona State vs Texas Tech: A Big 12 Football Clash Worth Watching
The Arizona State vs Texas Tech matchup on September 21, 2024, was held at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. The game had high stakes, as it was Arizona State’s first game as part of the Big 12 Conference. Texas Tech took advantage of its home field and experience in the conference to secure a 30-22 victory.
Fans and analysts anticipated a tight game, and while Texas Tech had the upper hand early on, Arizona State made several attempts to bounce back. Both teams played with intensity, and each quarter delivered moments of excitement, making it one of the most talked-about matchups of the week.
First Quarter: Texas Tech Establishes Control Early
Texas Tech wasted no time asserting its dominance in the opening quarter. Quarterback Behren Morton connected with Johncarlos Miller II for a five-yard touchdown, energizing the Red Raider crowd. Soon after, Morton threw another successful touchdown pass, this time to wide receiver Josh Kelly, giving Texas Tech a commanding 14-0 lead.
Arizona State looked disorganized in the first few drives. Their offensive line struggled to hold back the Texas Tech pressure, which made it difficult for the quarterback Sam Leavitt to create plays. The Sun Devils failed to score in the first quarter and quickly found themselves playing catch-up.
Second Quarter: Arizona State Responds with Momentum
In the second quarter, Arizona State began to show signs of recovery. Kicker Ian Hershey put the Sun Devils on the board with a 34-yard field goal. That small score gave the team momentum, and soon quarterback Sam Leavitt took matters into his own hands. Leavitt ran the ball for a 1-yard touchdown, bringing the score to 14-10.
Just before halftime, Texas Tech added a 30-yard field goal to their tally, extending the lead to 17-10. Though the Sun Devils closed the gap, the Red Raiders maintained control going into halftime.
Third Quarter: Offensive Sparks from Both Sides
The third quarter turned into a display of both offensive skill and defensive resilience. Texas Tech’s Jalin Conyers rushed for a three-yard touchdown, pushing the lead to 24-10. Arizona State responded with a counterattack, as running back Cam Skattebo broke through for a three-yard touchdown of his own.
Arizona State’s defense tried to maintain the momentum by pressuring Morton, but the Red Raiders’ offensive line held strong. Both teams exchanged big plays, but the scoreboard still favored Texas Tech at 24-16.
Fourth Quarter: Texas Tech Seals the Win
In the fourth and final quarter, Texas Tech’s special teams stepped up. Kicker Reese Burkhardt nailed a 40-yard field goal, and shortly afterward, Gino Garcia added a 39-yard field goal to widen the lead to 30-16. Arizona State made a final push as Cam Skattebo found the end zone again with a short three-yard run.
Despite the late score, Arizona State failed to execute the necessary plays to close the gap. The final whistle blew with Texas Tech winning 30-22, marking a strong start for them in the Big 12 and a tough welcome for Arizona State.
Arizona State vs Texas Tech: Key Player Performances
Texas Tech Red Raiders
Behren Morton (QB):
Morton had a solid outing with 24 completions on 44 attempts. He passed for 201 yards and two touchdowns. His accuracy and quick decision-making gave Texas Tech the edge early in the game.
Tahj Brooks (RB):
Brooks carried the ball 27 times for 117 yards, averaging over 4 yards per carry. His consistency kept the Arizona State defense guessing.
Josh Kelly (WR):
Kelly led the receiving corps with 10 catches for 89 yards and a touchdown. His chemistry with Morton was evident in key plays.
Arizona State Sun Devils
Sam Leavitt (QB):
Leavitt completed 22 of 38 passes for 282 yards. He also added a rushing touchdown, showing versatility under pressure.
Cam Skattebo (RB):
Skattebo was the standout performer for Arizona State. He ran 18 times for 60 yards and two touchdowns and caught 6 passes for 117 yards. His dual-threat ability was crucial to the team’s offense.
Xavier Guillory (WR):
Guillory caught 6 passes for 74 yards, giving Leavitt a reliable target throughout the game.
Defense Makes a Difference in Arizona State vs Texas Tech
The difference in the game boiled down to defense. Texas Tech’s defense made timely stops and forced Arizona State into tough third-down situations. Linebacker Ben Roberts recorded 11 tackles, showing leadership and awareness. Defensive back C.J. Baskerville intercepted a key pass in the third quarter, ending a promising drive by Arizona State.
Arizona State also had standout defenders. Xavion Alford and Myles Rowser each recorded 9 tackles. Rowser even added a sack, but the team struggled to maintain pressure consistently. The Sun Devils gave up crucial third-down conversions, which allowed Texas Tech to control the clock and the pace.
Full Game Statistics: Arizona State vs Texas Tech
| Statistic | Arizona State | Texas Tech |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 376 | 334 |
| First Downs | 23 | 21 |
| Third Down Efficiency | 6/14 | 7/17 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 0 |
| Time of Possession | 29:45 | 30:15 |
| Penalties | 5 | 6 |
Despite leading in total yards and first downs, Arizona State’s single turnover and inability to convert in critical moments ultimately cost them the game.
Coaching Strategies and In-Game Decisions
Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire deserves credit for his aggressive play-calling in the first half. His decision to go for early touchdowns paid off and created a cushion for the rest of the game. The balance between passing and rushing kept Arizona State’s defense on its toes.
Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham, in his first year leading the Sun Devils in the Big 12, took some calculated risks. While some of his decisions brought results—like trusting Skattebo in short-yardage situations—others fell short, particularly in fourth-down attempts and red zone execution.
Arizona State vs Texas Tech: Fan Reactions and Atmosphere
The home crowd at Jones AT&T Stadium played a significant role in energizing Texas Tech. The fans were loud from kickoff to the final whistle, creating a challenging environment for Arizona State. Many Arizona State fans expressed optimism despite the loss, pointing to Leavitt and Skattebo’s performances as signs of future success.
Social media buzzed with clips from the game, including Skattebo’s powerful runs and Morton’s precise throws. The college football community praised both teams for their intensity and sportsmanship.
What This Game Means Moving Forward
For Texas Tech, the win was a statement to the rest of the Big 12. They showed discipline, maturity, and a well-rounded team effort. Morton continues to grow into a dependable quarterback, and the defense looks strong enough to compete with any team in the conference.
For Arizona State, the loss was disappointing but not disastrous. The team showed flashes of potential, especially with key players like Skattebo and Guillory. Coach Dillingham now has valuable insights into what needs improvement, especially in defensive pressure and offensive execution in the red zone.
Arizona State vs Texas Tech: Historical Context
This was not the first time Arizona State and Texas Tech clashed, but it was one of the most significant due to conference implications. Historically, both programs have had moments of success but are looking to establish themselves more firmly in Power Five conversations.
Texas Tech has enjoyed more consistency in recent years, while Arizona State is rebuilding. The Sun Devils now face a steep learning curve in the competitive Big 12 environment.
Final Thoughts: Arizona State vs Texas Tech
The Arizona State vs Texas Tech game proved to be more than just a regular season matchup—it was a showcase of talent, determination, and strategic execution. Texas Tech’s early momentum and consistent defense helped them secure a solid 30-22 win. Arizona State, while falling short, displayed heart and promise for the rest of the season.
As both teams continue their Big 12 journey, this game will likely be remembered as a benchmark moment. With players like Morton and Skattebo making headlines, fans can expect more thrilling action in the weeks to come.
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