Game: Texas Tech Red Raiders at Utah Utes
Date: Friday, September 20
Time: 12:00 PM EST
Venue: Rice-Eccles Stadium
Spread: Utah -2.5
Total: 57.5
Game Preview
A pivotal Big 12 matchup is on deck as the Texas Tech Red Raiders travel to Salt Lake City to take on the Utah Utes. In a game with a razor-thin point spread, oddsmakers expect a close contest, giving a slight edge to the Utes, primarily for their home-field advantage at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Both teams enter this contest with major questions, particularly surrounding player health, which could be the deciding factor.
The Red Raiders come into this game with significant injury concerns. According to recent reports, starting offensive lineman Vinny Sciury is out for the season, a major blow to their front. Even more critical is the status of star running back Tahj Brooks, who was reported to be out with an arm injury for Texas Tech’s game on September 7. His availability for this matchup is the single biggest storyline for the Red Raiders. Compounding these issues, the team had as many as nine players listed as questionable for their game against North Texas a week prior, suggesting depth is being seriously tested.
For the Utah Utes, specific, current injury information is less clear from the available reports, but it remains a critical factor to monitor. The program has dealt with significant injuries in the past, including watching several key players suffer season-ending ailments during a previous season. A recent 13-7 victory over TCU showcases that Utah can win gritty, low-scoring affairs, relying on a tough and physical brand of football, especially at home.
Prediction
This game appears to be a classic clash of styles, with Texas Tech’s high-potential offense facing a stout Utah team that thrives on defensive battles. The betting line reflects this, with Utah favored by less than a field goal.
The avalanche of injuries on the Texas Tech side is too significant to ignore. The loss of an offensive lineman and, most importantly, the potential absence or limitation of Tahj Brooks, cripples the Red Raiders’ offensive game plan. While Utah’s own injury report should be monitored, playing at home provides a significant boost. Their demonstrated ability to win a tough, 13-7 game shows they have the defensive DNA to frustrate a potentially shorthanded Texas Tech offense. With the uncertainty surrounding Tech’s best player, the Utes are in a prime position to control the tempo and grind out a victory.
Given Utah’s defensive performance in a recent win and the significant injuries hampering the Texas Tech offense, the total of 57.5 points seems high. Expect a physical, hard-fought game where points are at a premium.
The Pick: Utah -2.5
Over/Under: Under 57.5
Sources:
Texas Tech injury report to start preseason camp
Texas Tech injury report for Oregon State
Vinny Sciury Out For Season in Newest Texas Tech Injury Report …
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Texas Tech Red Raiders Injuries 2024-2025 – Updated NCAAB …
Texas Tech Football (@TexasTechFB) / X
Texas Tech Red Raiders News – College Basketball | FOX Sports
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