BYU Playoff Hopes Dashed After Big 12 Championship Loss to Texas Tech

The No. 11 BYU Cougars lost the Big 12 championship game on Saturday. The final score was 34-7 against the No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders. The game was played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The loss effectively ends BYU’s College Football Playoff aspirations.

Texas Tech secured a first-round playoff bye with the victory. The Red Raiders dominated with a powerful defensive performance in the second half. This marks the second time this season Texas Tech has defeated BYU.

BYU Coach Makes Bold Claim About Victorious Opponent

Despite the lopsided loss, BYU head coach Kalani Sitake praised Texas Tech. He called them “the best team in the country” during his postgame press conference. Sitake pointed to Texas Tech’s record when at full strength.

He argued his team’s unique experience should be considered by the playoff committee. “Who’s played the best team in the country twice? We have,” Sitake stated. He suggested other teams would struggle against the Red Raiders as BYU did.

Committee’s View Likely Seals BYU’s Fate

Coach Sitake’s argument faces a significant hurdle. The playoff committee does not share his view of Texas Tech. They ranked the Red Raiders fourth nationally entering the weekend.

A second loss to the same team is a major setback. At 11-2, BYU’s resume now appears insufficient for a top-12 playoff spot. The team will likely await a bowl game assignment outside the playoff bracket.

The result solidifies Texas Tech’s position as a national contender while conclusively dashing BYU playoff hopes. The Cougars’ season, though strong, falls short of the ultimate goal.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Is BYU eliminated from the College Football Playoff?

Yes, the loss almost certainly removes BYU from contention. A second defeat, especially in the conference title game, makes a top-12 ranking highly unlikely for the 11-2 Cougars.

Q2: What did BYU’s coach say after the game?

Head coach Kalani Sitake called Texas Tech “the best team in the country.” He argued that facing them twice should be considered by the playoff committee when evaluating his team.

Q3: What did Texas Tech win with this victory?

Texas Tech won the Big 12 conference championship. The win also secured them a first-round bye in the upcoming College Football Playoff.

Q4: What was the key to Texas Tech’s win?

A stifling second-half defensive performance was crucial. They held BYU to just 7 total points, shutting them out after halftime to secure the rout.

Q5: Where was the Big 12 championship game played?

The game was held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. This is the traditional home for the Big 12 football championship.

Trusted Sources: Fox College Football broadcast, Big 12 Conference official statistics.