ANALYST: BYU UPSETS Texas Tech In Big 12 Championship, Bear Bachmeier Shines As Kalani Sitake Stays

The 2025 Edward Jones Big 12 Championship is set for a historic clash as the No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders (11-1, 8-1) face the No. 11 BYU Cougars (11-1, 8-1) on Saturday, December 6, at AT&T Stadium. For both programs, this marks their inaugural appearance in the Big 12 title game, with the winner not only claiming the conference crown but also securing a crucial automatic berth into the newly expanded College Football Playoff (CFP).The matchup is a compelling rematch, as the Red Raiders previously dominated the Cougars 29-7 just weeks ago. Texas Tech's primary strength lies in its elite defense, which ranks among the nation’s best, leading the FBS in success rate and allowing a mere 11.2 points per game. Key to their success is the defensive line, anchored by standout linebacker David Bailey. On offense, the Red Raiders rely on a healthier senior quarterback Behren Morton, who guides a unit capable of racking up high yardage totals.BYU, meanwhile, will look to avenge its earlier defeat. The Cougars’ game plan hinges on running back LJ Martin, who has surpassed 1,200 rushing yards this season, and the maturation of freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier. However, the BYU offense faces a brutal challenge trying to establish the run against Tech’s stout defensive front, which stifled them in the first meeting. For BYU, a victory is a non-negotiable requirement to keep their slim CFP hopes alive. Texas Tech, already holding a massive 98.2% chance of making the CFP according to the Football Power Index (FPI), can likely secure a first-round bye with a win.The outcome of this game will solidify the Big 12’s status in the new playoff format and define the season for the winner. Given Texas Tech’s dominant defense and recent head-to-head victory, they enter Arlington as comfortable favorites, but championship games often bring unexpected results.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Omaha SteaksSave big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout. Aura FramesFor a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.