Texas Tech Forces Four Interceptions to Defeat Colorado 29-7 and Remain Undefeated.
No. 12 Texas Tech continued its unbeaten start to the season Saturday night, defeating Colorado 29-7 in Boulder behind a dominant defensive performance that produced four interceptions. The Red Raiders (5-0, 2-0 Big 12) overcame an early deficit and scored 29 unanswered points to secure their fifth consecutive victory. Colorado (2-3, 0-2 Big 12) struggled to maintain offensive momentum after scoring on its opening possession. Colorado quarterback Isaac Wilson, making his first start in place of Julian Lewis, initially gave the Buffaloes reason for optimism. He guided the offense down the field before connecting with Joseph Williams for an 8-yard touchdown to put Colorado ahead. However, turnovers and missed opportunities quickly changed the direction of the game. The Buffaloes recorded four interceptions, missed two field goals and failed to convert a fake punt. Williams also threw an interception on a trick-play attempt. Texas Tech took advantage of Colorado's mistakes, turning the turnovers into 19 points. Brice Pollock recorded two interceptions, while linebacker John Curry returned one of his interceptions for a touchdown. The decisive scoring play came in the fourth quarter when Curry stepped in front of a pass near the end zone and returned it for an easy touchdown. Wilson threw three interceptions during the contest, contributing to Colorado's offensive struggles. Texas Tech quarterback Will Hammond helped put the game out of reach in the third quarter. With 3:01 remaining in the period, Hammond connected with Terrance Carter Jr. for an 11-yard touchdown, giving the Red Raiders a 12-7 advantage. Hammond finished with 134 passing yards and one touchdown. Despite gaining 375 total yards compared with Texas Tech's 315, Colorado could not turn its offensive production into points. The Buffaloes also committed eight penalties for 84 yards, continuing a difficult season marked by costly mistakes.
The defeat extended Colorado's losing streak to three games. Head coach Deion Sanders acknowledged the team's struggles and emphasized the need for improvement heading into its bye week. For Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire, the victory carried additional significance. It marked his 40th win with the program, making him the first Red Raiders football coach to reach that milestone in 58 or fewer games. His record stands at 40-18.
The Buffaloes held a 7-3 halftime lead, marking their first halftime advantage against an FBS opponent in more than a year. However, Texas Tech's defensive pressure and ability to capitalize on turnovers ultimately proved too much.
What's Next
Texas Tech will return home to face Arizona State on October 17. Colorado will also be at home that day, welcoming No. 13 Utah as it looks to end its losing streak.
