Bearcats Stun No. 8 Red Raiders 37-24 in Nippert Stadium Upset

Bearcats Deliver Decisive Second-Half Surge

The Cincinnati Bearcats hosted the No. 8 Texas Tech Red Raiders at Nippert Stadium on Saturday, October 24, 2026, and delivered a decisive performance to secure a 37-24 victory. While the Red Raiders started strong, the home team’s explosive offensive output in the second quarter shifted the momentum permanently.

The game featured high scoring, with both teams finding the end zone multiple times, but Cincinnati’s ability to convert drives into points proved to be the deciding factor in this competitive matchup. The final score reflected the Bearcats’ superior execution in critical moments, ending Texas Tech’s perfect record in conference play.

Scoring Sequence and Key Plays

Texas Tech struck first with a 47-yard field goal by Stephen Rusnak, but Stone Harrington answered with a 32-yard kick to tie the game at 3-3. Harrington extended the lead to 6-3 with a 48-yard field goal before the second quarter. Cincinnati responded with three consecutive touchdowns, all thrown by JC French IV.

Cole Tabb caught a 4-yard pass, followed by Malachi Henry’s 5-yard reception and Lyviel Waters’ 2-yard catch, each followed by successful kicks. This run put Cincinnati up 24-6 entering the third quarter.

In the third period, Harrington kicked a 42-yard field goal to make it 9-24. Peyton Morgan then returned an interception 53 yards for a touchdown, though the two-point conversion failed, narrowing the gap to 15-24. French IV added another score with a 17-yard pass to Larenzo Fenner, restoring the 31-15 lead.

In the fourth quarter, Harrington’s 33-yard field goal made it 18-31. Cole Tabb then ran 58 yards for a touchdown, and Quinten Joyner finished the scoring with a 3-yard run, both failing two-point conversions to seal the 37-24 result.

Statistical Highlights and Team Records

JC French IV was the offensive engine, completing 19 of 30 passes for 172 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions. Cole Tabb provided a ground threat with 16 carries for 173 yards and a touchdown. Zylan Perry added 43 receiving yards on four catches.

For Texas Tech, Will Hammond completed 24 of 37 passes for 227 yards with one interception. J'Koby Williams rushed for 81 yards on 12 carries, while Kenny Johnson led the receiving corps with 81 yards on seven catches.

The attendance at Nippert Stadium was 38,088. Following the game, Cincinnati improves to a 5-2 record, while Texas Tech falls to 6-1. The Bearcats’ ability to sustain drives and capitalize on turnovers showcased their depth and resilience against a highly ranked opponent.

Sources

ESPN