Texas Tech overcame an early 10-0 deficit to defeat No. 22 Houston, 28-26, and move to 3-0. The No. 13 Red Raiders also began conference play 1-0 after stopping quarterback Conner Weigman and the Cougars near the goal line on a late drive.
The defense improved after halftime following a difficult start. Trey White, a defensive end who transferred from San Diego State and returned from a knee injury, made his Texas Tech debut and sacked Weigman. Adam Trick recorded two sacks, and returning All-American A.J. Holmes Jr. had one. Defensive back Brenden Jordan also returned after sitting out the opening two games for violating an internal rule.
Coach Joey McGuire said White and Jordan were important additions as Texas Tech replaces several defensive starters who went to the NFL after last season. McGuire said White was not fully healthy and could have played more than expected.
On whether the unit can equal the 2025 defense, he said, “Give me two more games,” adding that White needs to recover and Jordan must keep playing. McGuire said the team is “still finding ourselves” and should improve during the season.
Texas Tech’s next game is against Sam Houston, its last nonconference contest. The team will have one extra recovery day after the Friday-night game. The report was published by sports.yahoo.com on Sept. 20, 2026.
