Where: Gesa Field at Martin Stadium (Pullman, WA)
When: Saturday, September 7th at 10:00 PM EST
Watch: FOX
Betting Odds
Spread: Washington State -1
Total: Over/Under 65.5
This matchup between the Texas Tech Red Raiders (1-0) and Washington State Cougars (1-0) pits two high-powered offenses coming off explosive wins in Week 1. Both teams will look to build on their performances, but defensive adjustments will likely be key to this contest. Let’s break down the key stats and factors that could impact this game.
Offensive Comparison
Texas Tech Red Raiders: Texas Tech escaped with a 52-51 win over Abilene Christian in their opener, putting up 378 passing yards and 161 rushing yards. They’ve been efficient on offense, averaging 10.37 yards per point, but their defense allowed 615 total yards, indicating that shootouts could be a regular occurrence for them this season. Their passing attack has been strong at 12.6 yards per pass, but they will need to shore up protection to limit big plays allowed on defense.
Washington State Cougars: Washington State dominated Portland State 70-30, with 413 passing yards and 224 rushing yards. Their offense was extremely efficient, averaging 9.1 yards per point. They’ve also displayed explosive capabilities in the air, with 24.29 yards per pass attempt, making their offense a significant threat. The Cougars also demonstrated balance, gaining 8.3 yards per rush.
Defensive Comparison
Texas Tech Red Raiders: Texas Tech’s defense struggled in their opener, allowing 51 points and a staggering 506 passing yards. Their 12.06 yards allowed per point shows a lack of efficiency in preventing scores. They allowed 14.06 yards per pass attempt, indicating their secondary was highly vulnerable, which could be problematic against Washington State’s explosive passing attack.
Washington State Cougars: Washington State allowed 30 points but controlled much of the game, giving up 234 passing yards and 215 rushing yards. Their defense performed better overall, allowing just 14.97 yards per point and keeping Portland State’s offense in check for most of the game. They’ll need to continue their solid run defense, limiting opponents to 4.48 yards per carry, against Texas Tech’s balanced offense.
Turnover Differential
Both teams struggled with ball security in their openers, with each posting a -1 turnover differential. Given how evenly matched these offenses are, winning the turnover battle will likely be critical for either team to pull ahead.
Betting and Trends
Spread: Washington State is favored by a narrow margin (-1). They’ve been strong against the spread (ATS) at home, covering in 13 of their last 18 games, while Texas Tech has struggled ATS on the road, going 2-4 in their last six.
Total Points: The total is set at 65.5, reflecting the expectation of a high-scoring affair. Washington State has gone over the total in 4 of their last 6 home games, while Texas Tech tends to play lower-scoring games on the road, with the total going under in 4 of their last 5 road contests.
Game Outlook
Texas Tech Offense vs. Washington State Defense: Texas Tech’s offense will need to capitalize on its passing strength to keep pace with Washington State. However, the Red Raiders' defensive vulnerabilities in the secondary could spell trouble against the Cougars’ potent passing game. If Texas Tech can reduce turnovers and generate some semblance of defensive resistance, they have a chance to compete in what could be a back-and-forth contest.
Washington State Offense vs. Texas Tech Defense: Washington State will look to exploit Texas Tech’s leaky defense, particularly through the air. With Texas Tech allowing 14.06 yards per pass attempt in their opener, Washington State’s dynamic offense could break the game open early. The Cougars' ability to strike with big plays in both the passing and running games may be too much for Texas Tech to handle.
Prediction
Washington State’s more balanced and efficient offensive attack, combined with Texas Tech’s defensive struggles, gives the edge to the Cougars. While Texas Tech has the ability to put up points, their defensive lapses are likely to cost them in this matchup. Washington State should be able to take control in the second half and come away with a win in a high-scoring game.
Final score prediction: Washington State 45, Texas Tech 34.
