Third-Quarter Surge Decides Outcome
Cincinnati Bearcats turned the tide during the third quarter to defeat Texas Tech Red Raiders 37-24 on Saturday at Nippert Stadium. The decisive shift began with a defensive stop and a 53-yard interception return for a touchdown by Peyton Morgan, which cut Texas Tech’s lead to six points.
This momentum carried into the fourth quarter, where the Bearcats maintained their offensive pressure to close out the contest. The game featured high scoring, with Cincinnati outscoring the visitors 28-18 in the second and third quarters combined, effectively dismantling Texas Tech’s early field-goal advantage.
Bearcats Offense Dominates
Quarterback JC French IV was the engine of the Cincinnati offense, completing 19 of 30 passes for 172 yards and four touchdowns while throwing two interceptions. His connection with the receiving corps was prolific, as Cole Tabb, Malachi Henry, Lyviel Waters, and Larenzo Fenner all scored receiving touchdowns.
Tabb also contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 173 yards on 16 carries and adding a 58-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter. Zylan Perry added 43 receiving yards on four catches, providing a reliable target in the passing game.
The Bearcats’ ability to score from multiple positions and distances overwhelmed the Texas Tech defense, particularly during their explosive second quarter where they scored 21 points.