Football Daily

The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas football game was a thrilling matchup that went down to the wire. It was a game that had everything: high-powered offenses, dramatic comebacks, and a last-second finish that left fans breathless.
The Contenders:
The #7 ranked Texas Longhorns entered the game with a 9-1 record and a legitimate shot at the national championship.
The unranked Texas Tech Red Raiders, led by quarterback Graham Harrell and wide receiver Michael Crabtree, were known for their fast-paced "Air Raid" offense.
An Offensive Explosion:
The game lived up to its billing as a shootout. Both teams traded touchdowns throughout the first half, with Texas Tech holding a 31-24 lead at halftime.
The second half was just as exciting, with both teams continuing to score points. With less than two minutes remaining, Texas took the lead 39-33.
The Crabtree Catch:
With just seconds remaining on the clock, Texas Tech faced a 4th down and 15 from their own 25-yard line.
Harrell launched a deep pass down the sideline toward Crabtree, who was tightly covered by Texas cornerback Aaron Williams.
In a play that would become known as "The Crabtree Catch," Crabtree leaped high in the air and snagged the ball with one hand, just inches away from Williams.
A Stunning Upset:
With the catch, Crabtree put the Red Raiders in field goal range.
Texas Tech kicker Donnie Carona then drilled a 40-yard field goal as time expired, giving the Red Raiders a 40-39 victory.
A Turning Point in the Big 12:
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is considered one of the greatest upsets in college football history.
It helped propel Texas Tech to an 11-1 record and a share of the Big 12 Championship.
The game also marked a turning point in the Big 12 conference, ushering in an era of high-powered offenses and exciting games.
Legacy and Impact:
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is still remembered today as one of the most thrilling games in college football history.
The Crabtree Catch has become an iconic moment in Texas Tech football lore.
The game continues to be a source of debate and controversy, with many arguing that Williams should have been called for pass interference on the final play.
Additional Notes:
The game was televised on ABC and drew an estimated audience of 10 million viewers.
Harrell finished the game with 547 passing yards and five touchdowns.
Crabtree caught 11 passes for 217 yards and two touchdowns.
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is featured in the book "The Crabtree Game: Inside the Greatest Upset in College Football History."
More on this great game below.

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The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas football game, played on November 1, 2008, at Jones AT&T Stadium, will forever be etched in the memories of fans on both sides. This Big 12 Conference clash witnessed a dramatic comeback victory by Texas Tech over the heavily favored Longhorns in a game filled with thrilling moments and unexpected twists.

A Tale of Two Halves:

The game began with Texas dominating the first half, building a comfortable 24-10 lead. Quarterback Colt McCoy orchestrated the Longhorns' offense, throwing two touchdown passes and leading them to a seemingly insurmountable advantage. Texas' defense also played a strong role, stifling the Red Raiders' offense and holding them to just one touchdown.

However, the second half unfolded in a completely different direction. Texas Tech, led by head coach Mike Leach and quarterback Graham Harrell, staged a remarkable comeback. Harrell, known for his "Air Raid" offense, unleashed a torrent of passes, targeting his favorite receiver, Michael Crabtree. Crabtree caught six passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns, spearheading the Red Raiders' offensive revival.

The Red Raiders' defense also stepped up, forcing turnovers and limiting Texas' scoring opportunities. With each touchdown, the momentum shifted, and the crowd at Jones AT&T Stadium erupted in a frenzy of excitement.

A Last-Minute Miracle:

With just 1:29 remaining on the clock, Texas clung to a 33-32 lead. After a crucial defensive stop by Texas Tech, the Red Raiders took over possession at their own 37-yard line. Needing a touchdown to secure the victory, Graham Harrell orchestrated a flawless final drive. He completed passes to three different receivers, including a 20-yard strike to Crabtree on a 4th and 11, giving the Red Raiders a fresh set of downs.

With seconds remaining on the clock, Harrell found Crabtree on a slant route in the end zone for a game-winning touchdown. The stadium erupted in pandemonium as the Red Raiders completed their improbable comeback, winning the game 39-33.