Cincinnati Shocks No. 8 Texas Tech 37-24, Hands Red Raiders First Defeat
By Final Score 360 College Football Desk
October 26, 2026
CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bearcats delivered a major Big 12 upset Saturday afternoon, October 24, defeating No. 8 Texas Tech 37-24 at Nippert Stadium.
The victory ended Texas Tech’s undefeated start and gave Cincinnati one of its most significant home wins in recent years.
The Bearcats improved to 5-2 overall and 2-2 in conference play, while Texas Tech fell to 6-1.
Cincinnati Takes Control Before Halftime
Texas Tech opened the scoring with six first-quarter points, but Cincinnati responded with a field goal and then took control during the second quarter.
The Bearcats scored 21 unanswered points in the period, building a 24-6 halftime advantage.
That 18-point margin forced Texas Tech into an unfamiliar position. The Red Raiders entered the game undefeated but struggled to match Cincinnati’s offensive efficiency during the opening half.
Quarterback JC French IV directed the Bearcats’ passing attack, finishing with 172 passing yards.
Running back Cole Tabb provided the most productive rushing performance of the afternoon, gaining 173 yards.
Red Raiders Attempt Comeback
Texas Tech responded with nine points in the third quarter and another nine in the fourth.
However, Cincinnati maintained its advantage by adding seven points in the third quarter and six more in the fourth.
The Bearcats’ ability to continue producing points prevented Texas Tech from completing a comeback.
The final result represented Cincinnati’s first home victory over an Associated Press top-10 opponent since its 2006 win against Rutgers.
A Statement for the Bearcats
The win demonstrates Cincinnati’s ability to compete against the Big 12’s strongest teams.
The Bearcats entered the game with two conference losses, making a victory over a highly ranked opponent particularly valuable.
For Texas Tech, the defeat exposed vulnerabilities after an impressive undefeated start.
Cincinnati’s ability to establish a halftime lead and maintain offensive production in the second half proved decisive.
The Bearcats now have an opportunity to use this result as a turning point during the closing portion of their conference schedule.
Final Score: Cincinnati 37, No. 8 Texas Tech 24.
