Introduction:
The Iowa State vs Texas Tech matchup is one of the most exciting and fiercely contested rivalries in college sports, especially within the Big 12 Conference. Both teams have a rich history of competitive games that keep fans on the edge of their seats year after year. This rivalry isn’t just about the scoreboard—it’s about pride, tradition, and the intense passion shared by players and supporters alike. Whether on the basketball court or the football field, when Iowa State and Texas Tech face off, it promises to be a thrilling battle filled with unforgettable moments. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the history, key matchups, standout players, and what makes this rivalry so special.
History of Iowa State vs Texas Tech Matchups
The rivalry between Iowa State Cyclones and Texas Tech Red Raiders has grown steadily over the years, fueled by intense competition and memorable clashes. Both teams have been part of the Big 12 Conference since its formation in 1996, which has added even more significance to their matchups.
Historically, the games have been closely fought, with each team trading victories and showcasing strong performances. From nail-biting finishes to high-scoring affairs, the rivalry has produced some of the most exciting moments in college sports.
One of the standout chapters in this rivalry occurred during the 2010s when both programs experienced ups and downs, yet always brought fierce energy to their encounters. Whether it was a crucial football game that decided conference standings or a basketball showdown with tournament implications, Iowa State and Texas Tech games never fail to deliver excitement.
Recent Matches Between Iowa State and Texas Tech
The recent encounters between Iowa State and Texas Tech have been nothing short of thrilling, showcasing intense competition and memorable moments that have kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Men’s Basketball: A Thrilling Overtime Victory
On January 11, 2025, the Iowa State Cyclones, ranked No. 3, faced the Texas Tech Red Raiders in a nail-biting overtime game in Lubbock, Texas. The Cyclones emerged victorious with an 85-84 win, extending their winning streak to 11 games. Despite trailing by as much as 13 points in the first half, Iowa State rallied back, with Curtis Jones leading the charge, scoring 26 points. Joshua Jefferson played a pivotal role, contributing 17 points and securing the game-winning free throws with 4.1 seconds remaining in overtime .
Football: A Narrow Defeat for the Cyclones
In college football, the most recent matchup occurred on November 2, 2024, when Iowa State, ranked No. 11, hosted Texas Tech. The Red Raiders pulled off a stunning upset, defeating the Cyclones 23-22. The game was marked by a late-game drive led by quarterback Behren Morton, who connected with Tahj Brooks for a 5-yard touchdown with just 20 seconds left on the clock. Despite a strong performance from Iowa State’s quarterback Rocco Becht, who threw for 315 yards and two touchdowns, the Cyclones couldn’t secure the win .
Head-to-Head Statistics
The rivalry between Iowa State and Texas Tech is backed by a rich statistical history that highlights the competitiveness between these two teams across multiple sports. Here’s a breakdown of their head-to-head records:
Football Head-to-Head
- Total Meetings: Over 30 games
- Texas Tech Wins: Around 18
- Iowa State Wins: Around 13
- Recent Trends: Texas Tech has had the upper hand in recent years but Iowa State has also pulled off key victories.
Men’s Basketball Head-to-Head
- Total Meetings: Over 50 games since joining the Big 12
- Iowa State Wins: Slight edge with about 28 victories
- Texas Tech Wins: Close behind with about 24 victories
- Notable Fact: Many games have been decided by fewer than 5 points, reflecting the intense competition.
Points Scored
- Both teams tend to have high-scoring games in basketball, often exceeding 70 points per game.
- Football games have typically been closely contested with average combined scores in the 40s.
Home vs Away Performance
- Both teams have a strong home-court/home-field advantage.
- Texas Tech tends to perform better at home in football, while Iowa State’s basketball team shows strong results on their home court.
Top Players to Watch in Iowa State vs Texas Tech
When Iowa State meets Texas Tech, individual performances often make the difference. Here are some key players from both teams who consistently impact the rivalry:
Iowa State Cyclones
- Curtis Jones (Basketball, Guard)
Known for his scoring ability and clutch plays, Jones is a dynamic offensive threat. His agility and shooting range make him a player Texas Tech’s defense must constantly watch. - Rocco Becht (Football, Quarterback)
As Iowa State’s starting quarterback, Becht’s passing accuracy and decision-making under pressure are crucial. His leadership often sets the tone for the Cyclones’ offensive drives. - Jaren Holmes (Basketball, Forward)
Holmes is a versatile player who contributes both offensively and defensively. His rebounding and ability to drive to the basket are key assets during the heated matchups.
Texas Tech Red Raiders
- Behren Morton (Football, Quarterback)
Morton’s ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground makes him a dual-threat. His poise in clutch moments has led Texas Tech to several close wins over Iowa State. - Joshua Jefferson (Basketball, Guard)
Jefferson’s scoring prowess and defensive tenacity make him one of Texas Tech’s top players. His clutch free throws and three-point shooting often swing the momentum in Texas Tech’s favor. - Tahj Brooks (Football, Running Back)
Brooks’ speed and power running have been instrumental in breaking through Iowa State’s defense. His ability to find the end zone in critical moments adds an extra layer of challenge for the Cyclones.
Game Analysis and Tactical Breakdown
The Iowa State vs Texas Tech rivalry isn’t just about raw talent—it’s also a chess match between coaches and players, where strategy and tactics play a huge role in deciding the outcome.
Football Tactical Insights
Both teams emphasize a balanced offensive approach, blending passing and running to keep defenses guessing.
- Iowa State’s Approach:
The Cyclones rely heavily on their quarterback’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions. Rocco Becht’s accuracy allows Iowa State to stretch the field with precise passes, while their running game focuses on wearing down the defense with steady gains. Defensively, Iowa State aims to pressure the quarterback and force turnovers, disrupting Texas Tech’s rhythm. - Texas Tech’s Strategy:
Texas Tech often uses a more aggressive passing attack led by Behren Morton’s dual-threat capabilities. Their offense incorporates play-action passes and designed quarterback runs to create confusion. Defensively, the Red Raiders focus on containing big plays and forcing Iowa State into third-and-long situations, relying on disciplined coverage and strong linebacker play.
Basketball Tactical Insights
Both teams play fast-paced basketball but with subtle differences in style.
- Iowa State’s Style:
The Cyclones favor an up-tempo offense, pushing the ball quickly to create open shots. They rely on strong perimeter shooting, especially from Curtis Jones and Jaren Holmes. Defensively, Iowa State uses aggressive man-to-man coverage to pressure ball handlers and force turnovers. - Texas Tech’s Style:
Texas Tech emphasizes physical defense, often employing a mix of zone and man-to-man defenses to disrupt Iowa State’s rhythm. Offensively, they focus on inside scoring and exploiting mismatches, with Joshua Jefferson playing a key role in both scoring and playmaking.
Upcoming Iowa State vs. Texas Tech Game Preview
The Iowa State Cyclones and Texas Tech Red Raiders are set to face off in a highly anticipated matchup that promises to deliver intense action and strategic gameplay.
Game Details
- Sport: Men’s Basketball
- Date: Saturday, January 11, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM CT
- Venue: United Supermarkets Arena, Lubbock, Texas
- Broadcast: ESPN
- Teams: No. 3 Iowa State (13-1, 3-0 Big 12) vs. Texas Tech (11-3, 2-1 Big 12)
Team Overview
- Iowa State Cyclones: Boasting a 10-game winning streak, the Cyclones are entering this game with a strong momentum. Their defense has been a cornerstone of their success, ranking among the top in the nation. Offensively, they are led by a balanced attack, with contributions from both the backcourt and frontcourt.
- Texas Tech Red Raiders: The Red Raiders have been formidable opponents, with a potent offense that ranks among the top in the Big 12. Their ability to score efficiently and their depth make them a challenging team, especially on their home court.
Key Matchup
A critical aspect of this game will be the battle in the paint. Iowa State’s frontcourt, known for its physicality and rebounding prowess, will face off against Texas Tech’s versatile big men. The team that can establish dominance in the paint and control the boards is likely to gain a significant advantage.
Player to Watch
- Iowa State: Curtis Jones – A dynamic scorer and playmaker, Jones has been instrumental in the Cyclones’ success. His ability to create opportunities both for himself and his teammates will be crucial in this matchup.
- Texas Tech: Behren Morton – As a dual-threat quarterback, Morton has the ability to change the game with his arm and legs. His performance will be key to the Red Raiders’ offensive strategy.
Prediction
While both teams have strengths that can lead them to victory, Iowa State’s defensive capabilities and balanced offense give them a slight edge in this matchup. However, playing on Texas Tech’s home court adds an unpredictable element, making this game one to watch closely.
Conclusion:
The Iowa State vs Texas Tech rivalry continues to be one of the most thrilling matchups in college sports, and fans of Texas Tech Baseball know just how passionate and competitive Texas Tech teams can be across all sports. With each game, both Iowa State and Texas Tech bring intensity, skill, and heart, making every encounter memorable.
Looking ahead, this rivalry will only get fiercer as both programs strengthen their rosters and strategies. Whether it’s on the basketball court, football field, or in texastechbaseball, Texas Tech’s competitive spirit shines through, promising fans many more exciting and hard-fought battles.
For followers of texastechbaseball and the broader Texas Tech athletics community, the future is bright with plenty of high-stakes games and unforgettable moments on the horizon. No matter the outcome, the Iowa State vs Texas Tech rivalry will remain a highlight of the sports calendar and a true showcase of Texas Tech’s fighting spirit.
Bonus Points:
- Conference Connection: Both Iowa State and Texas Tech are key members of the Big 12 Conference, which fuels their rivalry with frequent high-stakes matchups in basketball and football.
- Close Games: Many games between these two teams have been decided by just a few points or in the final seconds, making the rivalry known for its dramatic finishes.
- Fan Passion: The rivalry isn’t just about the players — fans from both schools bring incredible energy, creating electric atmospheres whether the game is played in Ames, Iowa or Lubbock, Texas.
- Coaching Battles: Over the years, the rivalry has featured some memorable coaching matchups, with each side trying to outsmart the other through game plans and halftime adjustments.
- Rising Stars: This rivalry has often been a stage where future professional athletes first shine, giving scouts and fans a glimpse of the stars of tomorrow.
- Shared History: Beyond sports, both universities have a history of academic collaboration and friendly competition, adding layers to their spirited matchups.