Tahj Brooks delivered a standout performance on Saturday, rushing for 133 yards and scoring four touchdowns, contributing significantly to Texas Tech’s thrilling 56-48 victory over Oklahoma State in Stillwater. Brooks caught a 25-yard touchdown pass just before halftime, bringing Texas Tech ahead 21-14.
In the second half, Brooks maintained his momentum, scoring touchdowns from 2 yards, 40 yards, and 1 yard. Notably, his 40-yard touchdown on fourth-and-1 put the Red Raiders ahead 42-35 with just over ten minutes remaining. After Oklahoma State responded with a touchdown, Brooks solidified Texas Tech’s lead with his final score, making it 49-42 with 6:12 left on the clock.
Defensive standout Jacob Rodriguez played a crucial role, recovering a fumble in the end zone to extend Tech’s lead to 56-42. He also recorded 13 tackles and sealed the victory with an interception in the final seconds of the game.
Quarterback Behren Morton shone brightly as well, throwing for a career-high 404 yards and four touchdowns. His ability to convert a crucial third-and-11 late in the game showcased his effectiveness under pressure.
Despite the impressive offensive output, the Texas Tech defense struggled, allowing five touchdowns in the second half and giving up 156 rushing yards to Oklahoma State’s Ollie Gordon. The special teams unit also had its moments, with comprehensive plays including an onside kick return by Kelby Valsin that set up a crucial drive.
Looking ahead, Texas Tech (7-4, 5-3) is now just one game away from securing first place in the Big 12 standings, setting the stage for an exciting finish to the season. The Red Raiders have been resilient, improving to 6-1 in one-score games this year and triumphing in three road games within the Big 12, a significant milestone for the team.
In summary, despite defensive lapses, the incredible performances from Brooks and Morton propelled Texas Tech to a hard-fought victory, indicating their potential for further success as they look to close the regular season strong. This game also exemplifies the team’s ability to perform under pressure, offering fans hope for the upcoming matches and potential postseason opportunities.