A Decisive Finish
Texas Tech secured its second consecutive win with a 35-24 triumph over Oregon State at Reser Stadium. The Red Raiders (2-0) utilized balanced offensive attacks to overcome a resilient Beaver defense, establishing control in the second quarter and holding on despite a late Oregon State field goal.
Second Quarter Surge
The game remained scoreless through the opening period before Texas Tech exploded for 14 points in the second frame. Thomas Castellanos provided the initial spark with a 7-yard rushing touchdown, followed by a successful kick from Stone Harrington, giving the Red Raiders a 7-0 lead.
Oregon State responded quickly as Braden Atkinson connected with Jesse Legree on a 75-yard pass for a touchdown, tying the game at 7-7.
Texas Tech regained momentum late in the half. Cameron Dickey capped the quarter with a 1-yard rushing touchdown and Harrington’s kick, pushing the Red Raiders ahead 14-7 heading into halftime.
Third Quarter Back and Forth
The third quarter saw both offenses find the end zone or extra points. Braden Atkinson threw a 4-yard touchdown pass to AJ Newberry, who converted a two-point attempt, narrowing the deficit to 14-13. However, Texas Tech answered immediately as J’Koby Williams broke loose for a 38-yard rushing touchdown, restoring a seven-point lead at 21-13.
Oregon State refused to go quietly. Atkinson found Legree again on a 37-yard pass for a touchdown, and the Beavers successfully converted a two-point attempt with a run by Atkinson himself, tying the game at 21-21.
Closing It Out in the Fourth
The fourth quarter began with Oregon State taking the lead when Caleb Ojeda kicked a 34-yard field goal, making the score 24-21. Texas Tech’s offense, led by Will Hammond, responded decisively. Hammond connected with Coy Eakin on a 32-yard touchdown pass, and Harrington’s kick put Tech back on top 28-24.
The final margin was secured when Castellanos threw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Matt Ludwig. With Harrington’s extra point, the score became 35-24. Despite Oregon State’s efforts, Texas Tech held firm to improve their record to 2-0, while the host Beavers dropped to 0-2.
Sources
ESPN
