UCF vs Texas Tech: Red Raiders Eye Playoff Run

UCF vs Texas Tech: A Pivotal Big 12 Showdown

The college football landscape is heating up as the eighth-ranked Texas Tech Red Raiders (9-1, 6-1) host the UCF Knights (4-5, 1-5) in a crucial Week 12 Big 12 matchup. With College Football Playoff implications on the line, this game at Jones AT&T Stadium could define Texas Tech's championship hopes while UCF seeks to salvage a disappointing first season under Scott Frost.

How to Watch the Game

Fans can catch the action live on FOX starting at 2:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Tim Brando and Devon Gardner will handle the commentary duties, with sideline reports from Josh Sims. For cord-cutters, the game will be available via livestream on Fubo (subscription required).

Key Players to Watch

Texas Tech received a major boost with the confirmation that three pivotal players will be active: quarterback Behren Morton, linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, and receiver Lee Hunter. Morton, who has passed for 1,969 yards with 16 TDs this season, leads the offensive attack. Rodriguez has emerged as a Heisman dark horse after his 14-tackle, 1-interception performance against BYU.

UCF counters with a defense that ranks 19th nationally in passing yards allowed. Despite offensive struggles (94th in scoring), the Knights' unit has kept them competitive in most Big 12 matchups.

Matchup Analysis

Texas Tech enters as a 23.5-point favorite after dismantling BYU 29-7 in a Top-10 battle. This victory not only solidified their Big 12 lead but also positioned them as the conference's highest-ranked team in the CFP poll at No. 6. With just two games remaining, the Red Raiders control their destiny for a championship appearance.

UCF's transition to the Big 12 has been challenging under Frost, whose high-octane offense has struggled to materialize this season. The Knights rank 75th nationally in pace and 64th in yards per play, forcing adjustments to their "UCFast" philosophy.

"UCF’s defense could hang with Texas Tech’s offense even if Morton was at his best, but the Knights stand an even better chance with the Red Raiders doing their best to protect their signal-caller." - Betting Analysis

Prediction and Betting Angle

While projections favor Texas Tech by a 36-13 margin, the betting market suggests value in UCF as a 23.5-point underdog. The "hangover" factor is a key consideration – Texas Tech just secured its biggest win in years, and maintaining focus could be challenging. UCF's opportunistic defense could capitalize on any complacency from the Red Raiders.

What’s Next?

A Texas Tech victory would virtually clinch a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game and strengthen their CFP case. For UCF, this represents an opportunity to build momentum for the future under Frost while avoiding a winless conference record. The Red Raiders close the regular season at West Virginia, but their focus remains firmly on securing another statement victory at home.

Conclusion

This clash pits Big 12's brightest playoff hope against a resurgent program searching for identity. While Texas Tech appears destined for a championship run, UCF's defense ensures this won't be a mere formality. All eyes will be on Lubbock to see if the Red Raiders can maintain their remarkable season trajectory.