Tech tops K-State 43-20, snaps 8-game skid with turnovers

**Morton Masterclass, Red Raiders Dominate K-State to Snap Eight-Game Losing Streak**

MANHATTAN, Kansas – Quarterback Behren Morton, stepping in for an injured starter, delivered a standout performance to lead the No. 13 Texas Tech Red Raiders to a decisive 43-20 victory over the No. 25 Kansas State Wildcats on Saturday, October 14th, at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The significant win not only boosted the Red Raiders’ season but also remarkably ended an eight-game losing streak against Kansas State, marking Texas Tech’s first win over the Wildcats since 2010.

Morton, filling in for the sidelined Tyler Shough, showcased remarkable composure and efficiency, throwing for 249 yards and two touchdowns. His leadership was crucial in a game where Texas Tech capitalized relentlessly on Kansas State’s costly mistakes.

The Wildcats, known for their disciplined play, uncharacteristically turned the ball over four times. Quarterback Will Howard was intercepted three times, and K-State also lost a critical fumble, allowing the Red Raiders to convert those errors into valuable points and build an insurmountable lead.

“This win means a tremendous amount to our program and our fans,” said Texas Tech Head Coach Joey McGuire after the game, clearly emotional about snapping the long-standing rivalry drought. “Our guys have worked tirelessly, and Behren showed incredible poise and leadership stepping into a tough road environment against a ranked opponent. We preach capitalizing on opportunities, and our defense and special teams gave our offense those chances today.”

Beyond Morton’s aerial attack, the Red Raiders’ ground game was equally potent. Running back Cam’Ron Valdez had a breakout day, rushing for 104 yards on the ground, including an explosive 60-yard dash that set the tone early. Valdez also punched in a touchdown, further diversifying Tech’s offensive threat. Wide receiver Jerand Bradley was Morton’s favorite target, hauling in seven catches for 89 yards, including a pivotal 44-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter that stretched Tech’s lead to 27-7, effectively taking the wind out of K-State’s sails.

For Kansas State, the day was one to forget. While Will Howard managed to throw for 260 yards and a touchdown, his three interceptions were back-breaking, repeatedly halting promising drives and gifting possession to the Red Raiders deep in their territory. The usually formidable K-State run game also struggled to find traction, with star running back DJ Giddens limited to just 42 yards on 15 carries, a testament to Texas Tech’s stout defensive front.

“We simply turned the ball over too many times,” stated a dejected K-State coach post-game. “You can’t beat a good team in the Big 12, especially a ranked opponent, when you make those kinds of mistakes. We need to go back, evaluate, and learn from this.”

The victory is a significant boost for Texas Tech in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference, improving their overall record and keeping their bowl eligibility hopes firmly alive. For Kansas State, the loss is a setback in their conference championship aspirations, highlighting areas of concern that need immediate attention.

Texas Tech will look to carry this momentum forward, while Kansas State will aim to rebound and regain their footing in the challenging conference schedule ahead.