Historically, Texas Tech and Houston are original rivals. After several matchups in the 1950s, the two teams played each other every year from 1976 to 1995, when both schools were part of the now-defunct Southwest Conference.[4] The two teams have had numerous close games over their history, with 14 matchups being decided by 7 points or less (including a tie in 1987). On September 4, 2021, the two met again to play the Texas Kickoff game at NRG Stadium.[5] After the game, several fans broke out into a fight in the stands.[6]
After having received an invitation in September 2021, Houston announced that they would join the Big 12 Conference on July 1, 2023, which meant that the rivalry would resume as a conference game for the first time since the breakup of the Southwest Conference.[7]
Notable games
November 20, 1976: Referred to as "the most important game in Texas Tech history" at the time by SWC personality Dirk West, No. 5 ranked Texas Tech hosted No. 9 ranked Houston with a spot in the Cotton Bowl on the line. The Cougars would pull out a 27–19 victory, holding off a Rodney Allison-led comeback in the 4th quarter with a game-saving interception by defensive back Elvis Bradley.[8][9]
November 25, 1978: Ranked No. 5 in the nation and riding an eight-game win streak, Houston suffered a shock 22–21 upset at Texas Tech thanks to a game-winning two-point conversion pass from Ron Reeves to James Hadnot. It was the Red Raiders' first win over the Cougars since 1959.[10]
September 26, 2009: Playing each other for the first time since 1995 after the breakup of the Southwest Conference, No. 17 Houston came away with a thrilling 29–28 victory over Texas Tech after star quarterback Case Keenum ran for a touchdown with less than a minute remaining in the game.[11]
September 10, 2022: Looking for their first win at Texas Tech since 1990 and needing one more defensive stop on 4th and 20 in overtime, No. 25 Houston gave up a 21-yard pass completion from Donovan Smith to Jerand Bradley on the way to a 33–30 double-overtime loss.[12] Ironically, after the season, Smith would transfer to Houston.[13]
Game results
Rankings are from the AP Poll released prior to the game.
