Texas Tech’s playoff hopes took a hit this past weekend, falling 26–22 to previously unranked Arizona State in Big 12 play. The loss sent the Red Raiders tumbling from No. 7 to No. 14 in the latest AP Poll and left plenty of fans in Lubbock questioning what comes next.
It’s easy to understand the concern. Texas Tech had been one of the more complete teams in the country through the first month of the season, and the loss to the Sun Devils marked their first real setback in conference play. But despite the disappointment, the Red Raiders are far from finished.
At 3–1 in the Big 12, Texas Tech remains squarely in the hunt for a spot in the conference championship, and with it, the automatic berth into the College Football Playoff that comes with winning the league. The path is narrower now, but it’s still there.
If fans want to circle one game on the schedule, it’s the matchup against BYU on November 8th. The winner of that contest could gain control of the Big 12 race and take a major step toward a championship appearance. Until then, Texas Tech supporters will have a rooting interest against BYU, Cincinnati, and Arizona State, the three programs most likely to compete with the Red Raiders for a top-two finish in the standings.
Next up for Texas Tech is a crucial home test against Oklahoma State. A win would stabilize the team’s footing and keep postseason hopes very much alive. The playoff dream isn’t gone, it just requires a little more urgency from here on out.
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