The No. 12 Texas Tech Red Raiders will host the Abilene Christian Wildcats on Saturday in a Week 1 college football matchup on FS1. What an eventful offseason it has been for Texas Tech.
After a historic 2025 season in which the Red Raiders went 12-2, won the Big 12 and reached the CFP for the first time in school history before falling to Oregon in the Orange Bowl, Texas Tech brought in top transfer quarterback Brendan Sorsby. However, after the NCAA ruled Sorsby ineligible due to extensive violations of its sports wagering policies, the former Cincinnati quarterback eventually stepped away from the program. Now, Will Hammond will take the reins.
In 2025, Hammond appeared in nine games (two starts), completing 63.3% of his passes for 680 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions. He also added 299 rushing yards and five touchdowns on the ground. Texas Tech also returns what could be the best running back duo in the Big 12 in Cameron Dickey and J'Koby Williams.
However, the Red Raiders lost defensive captain Jacob Rodriguez, their top two pass rushers — including No. 3 overall pick David Bailey — and their top two cornerbacks from last season. Meanwhile, Abilene Christian is coming off a 9-5 season at the FCS level in 2025.
The Wildcats opened their 2026 campaign last week with a 21-14 loss to Lamar. Let’s take a look at the odds for Texas Tech vs. Abilene Christian at FanDuel Sportsbook as of Sept.
5. Spread Over/Under From FOX Sports Research: In Weeks 1 and 2 last season, Texas Tech blew out two inferior opponents as heavy favorites, beating Arkansas-Pine Bluff 67-7 and Kent State 64-14. The Red Raiders' offense averaged 42.5 points per game during the regular season, ranking third in the FBS and first in the Big 12.
Texas Tech also brought in veteran quarterback Tommy Castellanos just last week, which could help the Over in two ways. Hammond should be extra motivated to play well and solidify his starting job, while Castellanos, who should be available, will have an opportunity to make an impression in his debut against an FCS opponent. Even if Texas Tech builds a big lead, there's reason to believe it won't take its foot off the gas.
Last season's early blowouts showed that, and the Red Raiders have enough offensive firepower to potentially hit this total themselves. And if they don't, Abilene Christian could help. Texas Tech lost significant production from last year's defense, and while the Red Raiders reloaded on that side of the ball, it could be difficult to immediately replicate last season's level of success.
Take the Over. How to Watch Texas Tech vs. Abilene Christian
