No. 16 Utah and No. 17 Texas Tech will meet Saturday in what could determine the Big 12 title race. Both teams have dominated through three weeks, but this matchup feels like an early elimination game.
The winner emerges as the clear conference favorite.
Texas Tech is looking to reach 4-0 for the first time since 2013. Utah wants to reestablish Rice-Eccles Stadium as one of the toughest venues in the country after going winless at home in Big 12 play last season.
With College Football Playoff hopes on the line for both programs, this showdown is about national recognition as much as the conference title race.
Utah’s offensive surge
The arrival of quarterback Devon Dampier and offensive coordinator Jason Beck has transformed Salt Lake City. Through three games, Dampier has completed 73% of his passes for 628 yards while accounting for eight total touchdowns.
He’s led an offense averaging 45.7 points per game.
Utah’s offensive line remains among the country’s best at protecting the passer and finishing drives. The transition for Beck and Dampier from New Mexico has been seamless.
This marks the biggest test for both the Utes coordinator and quarterback.
Texas Tech’s air raid continuation
Behren Morton is off to a scorching start for Texas Tech. He’s tied for the college football lead with 11 touchdowns this season.
The Red Raiders rank second nationally in explosive play rate, trailing only USC.
Morton hasn’t faced an elite defense like Utah, which allows just 224 total yards per game. The Utes haven’t given up more than 10 points in any contest this season.
Morton and his receivers will need their best performance against a secondary allowing just 134 passing yards per game.
Defensive matchups
Both defenses have been dominant. Texas Tech has allowed only 231 yards per game and hasn’t surrendered a first-half point all season.
Utah’s defense is equally suffocating, particularly up front.
The Utes will test a Red Raiders offensive line that hasn’t faced a front as physical as Kyle Whittingham’s unit.
History and trends
Utah has been a home powerhouse under Whittingham with a 93-30 record at Rice-Eccles since 2005. Last season’s 0-4 mark at home in Big 12 play was uncharacteristic.
Texas Tech has thrived in the opening weeks but hasn’t played outside Lubbock in 2025.
Both offenses are capable of explosive plays. Points should come more easily than either defense has allowed so far.
Utah’s home-field advantage and Dampier’s early-season performance will be on full display.
How to watch, game time and TV
No. 17 Texas Tech (3-0) vs. No. 18 Utah (3-0)
Date: Saturday, September 20
Kickoff: Noon ET
Location: Rice-Eccles Stadium – Salt Lake City, Utah
TV: FOX
