Texas Tech Captures Big 12 Crown, Stifles BYU in Dominant Championship Victory

No. 4 Texas Tech won the Big 12 championship Saturday. They defeated BYU by a score of 34-7. The game was held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. This victory secured the Red Raiders their first outright conference title since 1955.

The win carries major College Football Playoff implications. Texas Tech is now positioned for a first-round bye. BYU’s hopes for a playoff spot are now in serious doubt. According to Sports Illustrated, the Red Raiders’ defense was the story of the game.

Defensive Dominance Seals the Deal for Red Raiders

Texas Tech’s defense was spectacular. They forced four turnovers in the second half alone. Linebacker Ben Roberts was named MVP after grabbing two interceptions.

The unit allowed just one scoring drive. They held a potent BYU offense scoreless for the final three quarters. This performance cemented their status as a national elite defense. They now rank among the very best in points allowed per game.

BYU’s Playoff Path Narrows After Title Game Loss

BYU entered the game with an 11-1 record. They were ranked 11th in the latest CFP poll. A win would have likely secured their spot in the new 12-team field.

The lopsided loss complicates their resume. Their only two defeats this season came against Texas Tech. The selection committee must now weigh that fact against the blowout nature of this loss. Their fate is now out of their hands.

Star Linebacker Makes Final Heisman Statement

Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez strengthened his Heisman case. He recorded a game-high 13 total tackles in the win. His season stats are remarkably versatile for a defender.

Rodriguez has forced seven fumbles and scored three touchdowns. Coach Joey McGuire even used him on offense late in the season. This championship performance was his final argument for an invitation to New York.

Texas Tech’s commanding Big 12 championship win proves their defense is championship-caliber. They await their playoff seeding with confidence after a historic season.

Thought you’d like to know

Did Texas Tech get a first-round playoff bye?

Yes. Winning the Big 12 championship virtually guarantees Texas Tech a first-round bye. They will host a second-round game in Lubbock.

Is BYU still going to the College Football Playoff?

It is now unlikely. Their case was damaged by the large margin of defeat. The committee will announce the final 12-team field soon.

Who won MVP of the Big 12 championship?

Texas Tech linebacker Ben Roberts won MVP honors. He had two critical interceptions in the second half to shut down BYU’s offense.

When was Texas Tech’s last conference title?

Their last outright conference championship was in 1955. They shared a conference title in 1994 but had not won one outright for nearly 70 years.

What is next for both teams?

Texas Tech awaits its playoff seeding and opponent. BYU must wait to see if its 11-2 record is enough for an at-large bid from the selection committee.