Texas Tech’s Kirby Hocutt Has Begun the Trash Talk with Houston Early
There’s nothing quite like a little pregame smack talk to spice up a Texas showdown. Texas Tech athletic director Kirby Hocutt fired the first shot this week ahead of the Red Raiders’ road trip to Houston, and let’s just say he didn’t hold back.
On Thursday night, Hocutt hopped on his personal X account (formerly Twitter) and declared Saturday’s matchup at TDECU Stadium a home game for Tech fans.
Red Raider Nation, it’s official — we have declared Saturday night’s game in Houston our eighth home game this season,” Hocutt wrote. “Houston is West Texas.
That’s one way to make sure Cougar fans are paying attention!
A Series With Some History
This isn’t the first time these two programs have squared off, and it won’t be the last. Houston currently leads the all-time series 18-16-1, but recent history tells a different story. Texas Tech has taken the last six meetings, including a 49-28 win in Lubbock on Sept. 30, 2023.
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The last time the Red Raiders visited Houston? That was back on Sept. 4, 2021, and Tech rolled out with a 38-21 victory. Needless to say, Cougar fans would love nothing more than to snap that streak this weekend.
Red Raiders Riding High
The Red Raiders enter the game ranked No. 14 in the nation with a 4-1 record (1-0 in the Big 12). Houston isn’t exactly limping into this matchup either—the Cougars are undefeated at 4-0 (1-0 in Big 12 play).
It’s one of those games where something’s gotta give, and you can bet both sides will bring the energy.
TDECU Stadium Ready for the Spotlight
If Hocutt’s prediction holds true, Houston’s TDECU Stadium could look like Raider Alley on Saturday night. According to the San Antonio Express, the stadium—built in 2014 with a 40,000-fan capacity—has only sold out six times in its history. The last was in 2023 when Texas came to town.
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Will Texas Tech fans help push that number to seven? If Hocutt’s social media jab is any clue, the Red Raiders are planning to turn Houston into Lubbock South for one night only!
If you could rename Jones Stadium, what would be the new name?
Gallery Credit: Landon King
Where was your favorite place to hang out as a teenager in Lubbock?
Gallery Credit: Landon King
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