Texas Tech is 3-0 after edging No. 22 Houston, 28-26, in the teams’ Big 12 opener. The No. 13 Red Raiders are 1-0 in conference play after stopping quarterback Conner Weigman and the Cougars near the goal line on a late possession.
Houston built a 10-0 advantage as Texas Tech struggled on both sides of the ball. The Red Raiders improved defensively after halftime and overcame several long Houston drives. Adam Trick had two sacks, while Trey White and returning All-American A.J. Holmes Jr. each had one.
White, a defensive end who transferred from San Diego State, played his first game for Texas Tech after recovering from a knee injury. McGuire said White was not fully healthy and might have taken more snaps than planned. Defensive back Brenden Jordan also returned after missing the opening two games because of an internal rules violation.
McGuire said both players made significant contributions as Texas Tech replaces defensive starters who went to the NFL after last season.
McGuire said the defense is still developing. Asked if it could equal the 2025 unit, he said, “Give me two more games,” and said White must regain full health while Jordan continues playing. Texas Tech faces Sam Houston in its last nonconference game next week and gets an extra recovery day following the Friday-night Houston game.
