Texas Tech vs. Arkansas: Liberty Bowl 2024 Predictions & Insights

The college football bowl season is heating up, particularly with the upcoming Liberty Bowl taking place in Memphis, Tennessee, where the Texas Tech Red Raiders will face off against the Arkansas Razorbacks. This highly anticipated matchup promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams bring unique strengths and challenges to the field.

Team Overview

Texas Tech Red Raiders

The Texas Tech Red Raiders enter the Liberty Bowl with an impressive 8-4 season record. However, they are grappling with significant player absences due to injuries and opting out for the NFL draft. The team will notably be without their starting quarterback Behren Morton, who recently underwent shoulder surgery. Morton had a stellar season, passing for 3,335 yards and throwing 27 touchdowns against 8 interceptions. In his stead, freshman Will Hammond is set to make his first career start. Coach Joey McGuire has expressed confidence in Hammond’s preparation and skill set, noting his high football IQ and dedication.

While the Red Raiders boast a robust offensive lineup, they might miss Tahj Brooks, a two-time 1,500-yard rusher, due to his uncertain status for the game.

Arkansas Razorbacks

On the other side, the Arkansas Razorbacks, finishing their season at 6-6, are dealing with a roster impacted by the transfer portal and NFL preparations. Key players like JaQuinden Jackson and Andrew Armstrong have opted out, further complicating their game plan. However, they are led by standout quarterback Taylen Green, capable of making significant plays both in the air and on the ground. This season, Green threw for 2,813 yards, completed 13 touchdowns and added 521 rushing yards with 7 touchdowns.

Game Predictions and Odds

With both teams missing critical players, predictions for the Liberty Bowl are varied. According to the latest updates, Arkansas is favored, reflecting models like SP+ which predicts a closer score margin than typical bowl games. SP+ forecasts Arkansas defeating Texas Tech with a projected score of 32 to 26, offering the Razorbacks a 64% chance of victory.

Betting Odds as of December 25:

• Spread: Texas Tech (-1.5)
• Moneylines: Texas Tech (-115); Arkansas (-105)
• Over/Under: 51.5 points

The consensus among bettors leans slightly towards Texas Tech to cover the spread, with 56% backing them. FanDuel Sportsbook reflects this trend, indicating a tight contest expected this Friday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Quarterback Duel: The focus will be on the performances of both young quarterbacks, with Texas Tech’s Will Hammond trying to establish himself, while Arkansas’s Taylen Green seeks to elevate his already impressive stats.
• Defensive Strategies: Arkansas may edge out Texas Tech in defensive prowess, having suffered less attrition from players leaving for the NFL or the transfer portal.
• Running Game Impact: How both teams manage the ground game will be crucial, especially given Brooks’s uncertain participation for Texas Tech.

Conclusion

This Liberty Bowl matchup is not just a game; it's a pivotal moment for both programs as they strive to build momentum heading into the next season. As the Texas Tech Red Raiders and Arkansas Razorbacks clash, fans can expect an exciting display of college football, strategy, and emerging talent.

Watch the Liberty Bowl live: Don't miss the action as the Red Raiders challenge the Razorbacks at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. With varying opinions among analysts and shifting betting sentiments, this game promises high stakes and high drama—perfect for college football fans.