Texas Tech’s season opener against Arkansas-Pine Bluff was interrupted Saturday night by a weather delay at halftime. Lightning forced officials to clear the field with the Red Raiders leading 47-0.
All fans and personnel were instructed to seek shelter as lightning was detected near the stadium. Play halted minutes after Texas Tech capped a dominant first-half performance. Quarterback Behren Morton exited with an injury early, but backup Will Hammond picked right up for the Red Raiders' offense.
The Red Raiders scored on all eight possessions in the first half. Morton threw for 201 yards and four touchdowns before his departure, while Hammond finished off consecutive scoring drives. Arkansas-Pine Bluff struggled to find an offensive rhythm, gaining just 52 yards in the first half.
Safety protocols for weather delays require a 30-minute pause after the last lightning strike. Officials said play would resume once conditions were deemed safe. Fans were advised to monitor official channels for further updates.
Texas Tech, picked to finish in the top half of the Big 12, appeared poised to open the season with a win before storms arrived. The game is scheduled to resume pending further notice from stadium officials.
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