BYU and Texas Tech are gearing up for one of the biggest games of the season Saturday, a top-10 Big 12 matchup with College Football Playoff implications. But before the teams clash on the field, their fan bases have teamed up to deliver something far more meaningful off it.
On October 16th, Texas Tech fan Maddie Ortiz was involved in a serious car accident with a drunk driver that left her hospitalized and recovering from extensive injuries. Her husband, Ivan, serves as the Red Raiders’ team barber and has been away from work to care for Maddie and their 3-year-old son. Because Ivan works on commission, the family quickly faced mounting financial strain.
Ivan launched a GoFundMe last week with a goal of $25k to cover expenses.
On Tuesday, BYU fan @SportyMcSports shared the fundraiser and urged Cougar Nation to “Jimmer this GoFundMe,” referencing BYU basketball legend Jimmer Fredette’s knack for scoring in bunches.
BYU fans, we play Texas Tech this week, and one of their fans is in need of help. She was hit by a drunk driver and is in the ICU. Her husband is the team barber.
— Sporty (@SportyMcSports) November 4, 2025
Let’s show them our love and support by Jimmering this go fund me! ❤️ https://t.co/8u17LRD4bT
BYU fans responded in a major way. Within 24 hours, donations surged to more than $67,000 by Wednesday afternoon. Hundreds of Cougar fans left encouraging notes alongside contributions marked with “Go Cougs!” And “Much love from BYU Nation.”
The generosity extended beyond fans. ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, who will call Saturday’s BYU-Texas Tech game in Lubbock, donated $5,000. Another anonymous donor matched that amount. Red Raiders fans expressed gratitude online, calling it a rare “hate week” defined by kindness.
The TBPN podcast aired this past Monday. 8 BYU at No. 9 Texas Tech will draw ESPN's College GameDay to Lubbock for the first time since 2008. But before kickoff, the biggest win may already belong to the fans.
Additional college football updates:
- Deion Sanders's contract terms and buyout information as the Colorado Buffaloes' head coach.
- LSU Tigers coach Brian Kelly's contract and buyout information.
- Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter suffers major blow during rookie season
- Will Lane Kiffin depart Ole Miss? Here's what to know about the most recent speculation.
- College football's cherished mascot has been diagnosed with cancer.