3 takeaways from Utah’s 24-point home loss to Texas Tech

The Utes never found a rhythm offensively and their defense wore down against a tough Red Raiders squad

Published: Sept 20, 2025, 2:53 p.m. MDT

Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive lineman Dylan Singleton (93) jumps on a loose ball during the first half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Brandon covers sports for the Deseret News, with an emphasis on the University of Utah and the NFL.

What was hyped to be one of the best Big 12 games of the season ended up being a 24-point blowout.

Texas Tech made its first trip to Rice-Eccles Stadium one to remember, as the No. 17 Red Raiders beat No. 16 Utah 34-10 on Saturday.

Here are three takeaways from the game.

Highlights, key plays and photos from No. 16 Utah’s home loss to No. 17 Texas Tech

Utah’s offense goes MIA

A lot had been made of the Utes’ offense under first-year coordinator Jason Beck over the first three weeks, as Utah, behind quarterback Devon Dampier, had displayed an ability to control the clock and efficiently wear down the opposition.

That didn’t happen Saturday, as Texas Tech’s defense showed it might be one of the best in the Big 12.

The Red Raiders never let Utah’s offense get into a rhythm, as the Utes finished with 263 yards of total offense. Outside of a quick touchdown drive in the fourth quarter that briefly gave Utah some hope, Texas Tech held the Utes to 4 of 14 on third down and forced four turnovers (more on that in a minute).

The Utes’ lack of a downfield passing threat caught up to them against an opponent more on their talent level, and the Red Raiders kept the Utah rushing attack, which had been averaging 290 yards per game, to just 101.

Dampier struggled, completing 25 of 38 passes for 162 yards and two interceptions. His timing was off the majority of the day, and the dual-threat QB had just 27 yards on the ground as Texas Tech bottled up Utah’s offense.

Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham stands on the sideline during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders punter Jack Burgess (41) reacts after successfully punting the ball during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes linebacker Johnathan Hall (7) reacts after the play during the first half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Referees work during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Fans react to a call during the first half of the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes tight end Hunter Andrews (10) catches the ball over Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive back Brenden Jordan (7) during the first half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton (2) is sacked during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders head coach Joey McGuire stands on the sideline during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

A member of the Utah Indian Tribe watches from sidelines during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

A fan reacts during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

The University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders play in an NCAA football game held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes defensive tackle Jonah Lea'ea (91) reacts during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes wide receiver Jackson Bennee (23) celebrates after a long catch during the first half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. The play was called back for a penalty. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Will Hammond (15) throws the ball during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

A Utah Utes fan reacts during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes running back Wayshawn Parker (1) dives onto a loose ball during the first half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes safety Jackson Bennee (23), left, and Utah Utes wide receiver Ryan Davis (9), right, celebrate after Bennee scored a touchdown, which ended up being reversed, during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Cole Standage (16) breaks up a pass intended for Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5) during the first half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders recover a fumble during an NCAA football game against the University of Utah Utes held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Reggie Virgil (1) misses an incoming pass during an NCAA football game against the University of Utah Utes held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Blake Cotton (16) breaks up a pass to Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5) during an NCAA football game held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes safety Tao Johnson (5) celebrates with defensive end John Henry Daley (90) after the play during the first half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes players celebrate after cornerback Blake Cotton (16) broke up a pass to Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5) and Utah Utes safety Tao Johnson (5) intercepted the ball during an NCAA football game held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes fans cheer after cornerback Blake Cotton (16) broke up a pass to Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5) and Utah Utes safety Tao Johnson (5) intercepted the ball during an NCAA football game held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Blake Cotton (16) breaks up a pass to Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5), left, as Utah Utes safety Tao Johnson (5) intercepted the ball during an NCAA football game held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Matt Leinart, center, of Fox’s “Big Noon Kickoff” show, stands on the sideline during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Mark Ingram III, right, of Fox’s “Big Noon Kickoff” show, stands on the sideline during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham looks on during the first half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Fans watch a replay on the video board during the first half of the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes place kicker Dillon Curtis (17) prepares to kick the ball for a field goal during an NCAA football game against the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5) catches a pass during an NCAA football game against the University of Utah Utes held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes defensive end John Henry Daley (90), top, and Utah Utes safety Nate Ritchie (6), bottom, tackle Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Cameron Dickey (8) during an NCAA football game held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

A fan reacts to a call during the first half of the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) prepares to throw the ball during an NCAA football game against the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) passes the ball during an NCAA football game against the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes safety Jackson Bennee (23) celebrates with cornerback Smith Snowden (2) after intercepting a pass during the first half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes tight end Dallen Bentley (88) misses a pass during an NCAA football game against the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes running back Wayshawn Parker (1) scores a touchdown during an NCAA football game against the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Referee Michael VanderVelde, left, and back judge Robert Lewis, right, watch a replay as they review a call during the first half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes running back Wayshawn Parker (1) scores a touchdown during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes running back Wayshawn Parker (1) reacts after scoring a touchdown during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes fans react after Utah Utes running back Wayshawn Parker (1) scored a touchdown during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Cameron Dickey (8), center, runs into the end zone to score a touchdown during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

A fan cheers after the officials announced the result of a review during the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker Jacob Rodriguez (10) makes an interception during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Will Hammond (15) runs out of bounds during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes fans leave in the fourth quarter during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. The Texas Tech Red Raiders won 34-10 against the Utah Utes. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Elijah Davis (9) breaks up a pass intended for Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5) during the first half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Reggie Virgil (1) scores a touchdown during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders place kicker Stone Harrington (48) kicks the ball for a field goal during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Smith Snowden (2) looks up while praying before an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes cheerleaders cheer on the sidelines during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes fans cheer during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Members of the Utah Indian Tribe walk off the field after being honored during a halftime performance at an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive back Brice Pollock (14) intercepts a pass intended for Utah Utes tight end JJ Buchanan (81) during the first half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

The field is reflected in a fans sunglasses during the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes linebacker Lander Barton (8) reacts after the play second half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Fans hold two fingers on each hand as they honor Ty Jordan and Aaron Lowe during the third quarter of the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Smith Snowden (2) gestures for the fans to be loud during the first half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Elijah Davis (9) gestures to the crowd during the third quarter of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders tight end Terrance Carter Jr. (7) falls into the end zone for a touchdown during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Cameron Dickey (8) rushes for a touchdown during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Reggie Virgil (1) celebrates after the Red Raiders scored a touchdown during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive lineman A.J. Holmes Jr. (33) and Utah Utes wide receiver Daylin Caamano (83) get tangled during a play during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes punter Orion Phillips (92) kicks the ball away during the second half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Reggie Virgil (1) celebrates with wide receiver Coy Eakin (3) after scoring a touchdown during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) passes during the second half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes wide receiver Luca Caldarella (19) reacts after the play during the second half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham looks on after the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Will Hammond (15) passes the ball during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Cameron Dickey (8) rushes against the Utah Utes during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Reggie Virgil (1) makes a catch over Utah Utes safety Nate Ritchie (6) during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5) reaches for a pass over Utah Utes cornerback Elijah Davis (9) during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Cameron Dickey (8) is tackled by Utah Utes defensive end John Henry Daley (90) and safety Nate Ritchie (6) during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

The ball slips through the fingers of Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Caleb Douglas (5) during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) drops back during the second half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Fans sway together during a TV timeout during the second half of the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Smith Snowden (2) misses a tackle against Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Will Hammond (15) during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes running back Wayshawn Parker (1) rushes for a touchdown during the second half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker John Curry (6) tackles Utah Utes running back NaQuari Rogers (21) during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Coy Eakin (3) makes a catch during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive lineman Skyler Gill-Howard (0) reacts after the play during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Will Hammond (15) drops back to throw during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive lineman Skyler Gill-Howard, left, reacts after the play during the second half of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Cameron Dickey (8) runs through a gap in the Utah Utes defensive line during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker Jacob Rodriguez (10) intercepts a pass intended for Utah Utes tight end Dallen Bentley (88) during the second half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Fans make their way to the exits before the final whistle as the Utah Utes lose to the Texas Tech Red Raiders 34-10 at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders head coach Joey McGuire looks on during the fourth quarter of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Byrd Ficklin (15) runs with the ball during the second half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham, left, greets Texas Tech Red Raiders head coach Joey McGuire, right, after the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker John Curry (6) celebrates with his teammates after the Texas Tech University Red Raiders won 34-10 in an NCAA football game against the University of Utah Utes held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

The Texas Tech Red Raiders celebrate after the Texas Tech University Red Raiders won 34-10 in an NCAA football game against the University of Utah Utes held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4), right, and Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Reggie Virgil (1), left, walk off the field after the Texas Tech University Red Raiders won 34-10 in an NCAA football game against the University of Utah Utes held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4), right, hugs Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive back Cole Wisniewski (5) after the Texas Tech University Red Raiders won 34-10 in an NCAA football game against the University of Utah Utes held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes defensive end Logan Fano (0) tugs on Texas Tech Red Raiders offensive lineman Jacob Ponton (70) during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes linebacker Levani Damuni (3) runs to defend Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton (2) during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes safety Jackson Bennee (23) runs into the endzone for a touchdown which is reversed during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes defensive tackle Jonah Lea'ea (91) sacks Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton (2) during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes linebacker Lander Barton (8), bottom right, takes down Texas Tech Red Raiders running back J'Koby Williams (20) during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Cameron Dickey (8) is taken down during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes linebacker Lander Barton (8) takes down Texas Tech Red Raiders running back J'Koby Williams (20) during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes cornerback Smith Snowden (2) brings down Texas Tech Red Raiders tight end Terrance Carter Jr. (7) during an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Utah Utes running back Wayshawn Parker (1) runs against the Texas Tech Red Raiders defense during the first quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes punter Orion Phillips (92) kicks the ball away during the first quarter of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Former Utah Utes head coach Urban Meyer is recognized during the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) passes the ball during the first quarter of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Officials walk off the field after determining that the Utah Utes came up short of a first down during the first quarter of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes defensive tackle Jonah Lea'ea (91) sacks Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton (2) during the first half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

The Texas Tech Red Raiders defense reacts after a turnover during the first quarter of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes wide receiver Tobias Merriweather (18) makes a catch while defended by Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive back Brice Pollock (14) during the second quarter of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

The officials watch a replay review during the second quarter of the game between the Utah Utes and the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes running back NaQuari Rogers (21) runs the ball against the Texas Tech Red Raiders during the second quarter of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes defensive end John Henry Daley (90) hits Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton (2) during the first half of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes safety Jackson Bennee (23) tackles Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Adam Hill (23) during the second quarter of the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Cameron Dickey (8) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter of the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes place kicker Dillon Curtis (17) kicks a field goal during the second quarter of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes fans cheer during the first quarter of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) warms up before the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

The Utah Utes warmup before an NCAA football game between the University of Utah Utes and the Texas Tech University Red Raiders held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Texas Tech dominated, even when it turned to a backup to lead the offense

The game was a defensive battle for three quarters, until Texas Tech started to pull away in the fourth quarter behind a quarterback that began the game on the sideline.

While Behren Morton has been viewed as one of the top returning Big 12 signal callers, the Utes held him in check for two-plus quarters and intercepted the senior twice, including once in the end zone when Jackson Bennee ripped the ball away from receiver Coy Eakin.

On Texas Tech’s first drive of the third quarter though, Morton took a hard hit from Utah linebacker Johnathan Hall and was replaced by Will Hammond.

The redshirt freshman from Austin, Texas, ended up with the better day, while leading Texas Tech to scores on his final four drives, including three straight touchdowns to put the game away.

Hammond added an element of a running game that Morton doesn’t bring, and he showed excellent touch on the deep ball, something that helped Texas Tech pull away.

Hammond finished the game completing 13 of 16 passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 61 yards on eight carries.

After Utah cut its deficit to 13-10 with 10:22 to play, Hammond’s 32-yard run sparked the Red Raiders’ next drive, and after his first touchdown pass — a 24-yarder to Terrance Carter Jr. — Texas Tech had the game wrapped up.

Turnovers cost the Utes, too

Through the first three weeks of the season, Utah had turned the ball over just once, on a fumble in the red zone against Wyoming.

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On Saturday, though, the Utes couldn’t get a handle on the pigskin.

Texas Tech forced back-to-back fumbles in the first quarter by punching the ball out, and while the Red Raiders never took advantage of those mistakes, those turnovers played a large role in Utah never being able to build any momentum on the offensive side.

Dampier threw his first of two interceptions in the second quarter, and then his second — on a fourth and long in the fourth quarter — led to Texas Tech’s final score.

It was a learning experience for a Utah offense that had played clean ball most of the time for the first three weeks.

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