As college football fervor envelops fans across the nation, this Saturday, November 9, 2024, promises to be electrifying as the No. 24 Colorado Buffaloes (6-2) head to Lubbock, Texas, to face the Texas Tech Red Raiders (6-3) at Jones AT&T Stadium. With both teams battling for dominance in the Big 12, this matchup is critical for their aspirations in the final weeks of the season.
Recent Performances
Colorado Buffaloes
The Buffaloes enter this clash on the heels of a convincing 34-23 victory over the Cincinnati Bearcats. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders showcased an impressive performance, completing 25 of 30 passes for 323 yards and two touchdowns without any interceptions. His efficient play has been a cornerstone for Colorado, complemented by his contribution on the ground, adding one rushing touchdown to his stat line.
Running back Isaiah Augustave also shined in the victory, amassing 91 yards on 22 carries, with one touchdown. On the receiving end, Travis Hunter was the standout player, catching nine passes for 153 yards and two touchdowns, making him a significant threat through the air. This potent offensive performance illustrates Colorado’s capability to perform under pressure.
Texas Tech Red Raiders
In contrast, the Red Raiders eked out a close 23-22 win over Iowa State in their last outing. Behren Morton led the charge for Texas Tech, throwing for 237 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. Despite the interceptions, his ability to connect on crucial plays kept the Red Raiders in the hunt.
Running back Tahj Brooks was pivotal, carrying the ball 25 times for 122 yards and finding the end zone once. Additionally, wide receiver Josh Kelly snagged eight passes for 127 yards, scoring both of Morton’s touchdown passes. This well-rounded offensive effort from Texas Tech signals their competitiveness heading into this rivalry matchup.
Betting Insights and Odds
As the anticipation builds, oddsmakers have placed the Buffaloes as 4.5-point favorites in this contest, with an over/under set at 62.5 points. Analyzing the betting trends, Colorado boasts a strong 6-2 record against the spread this season and has managed to cover the spread in two out of three games when favored by 4.5 points or more. Conversely, Texas Tech holds a respectable 5-3-1 record against the spread, remaining unbeaten (3-0) as underdogs of 4.5 points or greater.
Colorado Betting Trends
- Record Against the Spread: 6-2-0
- Wins as 4.5-Point Favorites: 2-1
- Games Over Total: 4 out of 8
Texas Tech Betting Trends
- Record Against the Spread: 5-3-1
- As Underdogs: 3-0
- Games Over Total: 5 out of 9
Key Players to Watch
Colorado Leaders
- Shedeur Sanders: 2,591 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions.
- Isaiah Augustave: 271 rushing yards, 3 touchdowns; crucial in the running game.
- Travis Hunter: 60 receptions for 757 yards and 8 touchdowns, a dynamic weapon in the passing attack.
Texas Tech Leaders
- Behren Morton: 2,300 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions.
- Tahj Brooks: 1,047 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns; a crucial engine for the offense.
- Josh Kelly: 68 receptions for 736 yards and 5 touchdowns, a go-to target for Morton.
Game Day Details
- Date: Saturday, November 9, 2024
- Time: 4 p.m. ET
- Venue: Jones AT&T Stadium, Lubbock, Texas
- Broadcast: Available on FOX and streaming on platforms like FuboTV.
Conclusion
As the Colorado Buffaloes prepare to face the Texas Tech Red Raiders in this pivotal Big 12 matchup, fans can expect an enthralling contest filled with individual brilliance and team strategy. With both squads boasting potent offenses and resilient defenses, the outcome will hinge on key performances and adjustments made throughout the game. Fans won’t want to miss this action-packed showdown that could shape the trajectory of both teams’ seasons!
