Top Historical Football Games
The Texas Tech Red Raiders have taken the field 936 times since its gridiron debut ended in a tie with the McMurray Indians on Oct. 3, 1925... — bleacherreport.com
The Texas Tech Red Raiders football program has a rich history filled with thrilling moments and iconic victories. Here's a glimpse into some of their most significant games:
1. 1954 Sun Bowl: Tech's first bowl victory, defeating the Pacific Tigers 25-14. This win marked a turning point for the program, showcasing its potential on a national stage.
2. 1976 Cotton Bowl Classic: A dramatic 34-24 victory over Penn State secured a share of the Southwest Conference championship for Tech. This victory cemented their place as a major force in the college football landscape.
3. 2005 Insight Bowl: The largest come-from-behind bowl victory in NCAA history. Tech stormed back from a 31-point deficit to defeat the Minnesota Golden Gophers 45-42 in overtime. This game solidified the "Air Raid" offensive system and propelled Tech into the national spotlight.
4. 2008 Texas vs. Texas Tech: A nail-biting 39-33 upset victory over rival Texas. Down by 24 points at halftime, Tech staged a remarkable comeback fueled by Michael Crabtree's game-winning touchdown catch. This iconic win solidified Tech's place in Red Raider lore.
5. 2010 Fiesta Bowl: A thrilling 41-38 victory over Boise State. Tech's high-powered offense outlasted Boise State's "Smurf Turf" magic, securing their first Big 12 championship and earning their highest ranking in program history.
Bonus - 2002 Michael Crabtree's "Crabtree Catch": While not a full game, this iconic catch against Texas A&M cemented Crabtree's legacy as a Red Raider legend and became a defining moment for the program's identity.
These are just a few of the many memorable games that have contributed to the rich history of Texas Tech football. Each game showcases the program's resilience, offensive prowess, and unwavering spirit, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of Red Raiders.
