Red Raiders Rely on Late Surge to Defeat Arizona 34-26

A Decisive Fourth Quarter

Texas Tech Red Raiders defeated the Arizona Wildcats 34-26 on Saturday at Galaxy Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. The game’s outcome was sealed in the final period when J'Koby Williams broke through the defense for a 64-yard touchdown run, giving the Red Raiders a commanding lead. This pivotal play extended Texas Tech’s advantage, which they maintained until the final whistle.

The victory improved the Red Raiders’ season record to 7-1, while the Wildcats fell to 6-2.

Scoring Flow and Key Plays

The contest featured a back-and-forth scoring sequence that kept both teams within striking distance for three quarters. Arizona struck first in the opening drive when Michael Salgado-Medina kicked a 35-yard field goal. Texas Tech responded immediately with a 24-yard pass from Thomas Castellanos to Terrance Carter Jr. for a touchdown.

The second quarter saw Arizona take control, with Noah Fifita connecting with Isaiah Mizell on a 94-yard strike. Kedrick Reescano also found the end zone on a five-yard run. Texas Tech trimmed the deficit with a 29-yard field goal by Stone Harrington.

In the third quarter, Castellanos rushed for an eight-yard score, and Reescano added another touchdown on a one-yard run, though the extra point was blocked. Kenny Johnson caught a 27-yard pass from Castellanos to give Texas Tech a 24-23 lead heading into the final frame.

Statistical Highlights

Thomas Castellanos led the Red Raiders on the ground and through the air, completing 11 of 24 passes for 144 yards and two touchdowns. J'Koby Williams was the offensive engine on the ground, rushing for 175 yards on 14 carries and scoring a touchdown. Kenny Johnson contributed 49 receiving yards on four catches, including a score.

For Arizona, Noah Fifita threw for 417 yards on 33 of 45 attempts with one touchdown. Kedrick Reescano carried the ball nine times for 18 yards and two touchdowns. Isaiah Mizell was the primary target, catching seven passes for 182 yards and a touchdown.

Final Outcome

The Red Raiders closed the game with a 42-yard field goal by Stone Harrington and the aforementioned 64-yard run by Williams. Arizona answered with a 22-yard field goal by Salgado-Medina, but it was not enough to overcome the deficit. The attendance at Galaxy Stadium was 59,131.

This result stands as a significant win for Texas Tech, solidifying their position in the conference standings as they continue their season.

Sources

ESPN

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