Texas Tech Vs Oklahoma State Football Rivalry

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The Texas Tech vs Oklahoma State football rivalry is one of the most thrilling and closely contested matchups in the Big 12 Conference. Both teams have a rich history of producing talented players, passionate fans, and nail-biting games that often come down to the wire. As two of the most successful programs in the conference, their annual meetings are always highly anticipated events that draw attention from across the country.

The series between Texas Tech and Oklahoma State dates back to 1935, and over the years, it has evolved into a fierce and intense rivalry. The two teams have met 45 times, with Oklahoma State leading the all-time series 22-19-3. However, Texas Tech has had its share of victories, including some memorable upsets that have shaken the college football world.

Early Years of the Rivalry

The early years of the Texas Tech vs Oklahoma State rivalry were marked by a series of close games and dramatic finishes. In the 1950s and 1960s, the two teams often found themselves locked in intense battles that came down to the final whistle. One of the most notable games from this era was the 1953 matchup, which saw Texas Tech emerge victorious with a 20-19 win in Lubbock.

Rise of the Rivalry

The 1970s and 1980s saw the rivalry between Texas Tech and Oklahoma State gain momentum. During this period, both teams began to experience success on the field, with Oklahoma State winning several conference championships and Texas Tech producing talented players like Ricky Williams and Zach Thomas. The 1986 game, which saw Oklahoma State win 23-17, was a particularly memorable matchup that showcased the intensity and competitiveness of the rivalry.

Modern Era of the Rivalry

In recent years, the Texas Tech vs Oklahoma State rivalry has reached new heights. The two teams have consistently produced high-scoring, back-and-forth games that have captivated fans across the country. One of the most notable games from this era was the 2011 matchup, which saw Texas Tech win 41-38 in Stillwater. The game was marked by a thrilling fourth-quarter comeback by the Red Raiders, who scored 14 unanswered points to take the lead.

Coaching Rivalries

The Texas Tech vs Oklahoma State rivalry has also been marked by some intense coaching rivalries over the years. One of the most notable coaching rivalries was between Mike Leach and Les Miles, who coached at Texas Tech and Oklahoma State, respectively, in the early 2000s. The two coaches had a well-documented dislike for each other, which added to the intensity of the rivalry.

Another notable coaching rivalry was between Tommy Tuberville and Mike Gundy, who coached at Texas Tech and Oklahoma State, respectively, in the late 2000s and early 2010s. The two coaches had a series of heated exchanges on the sidelines, which added to the drama and tension of the rivalry.

Current State of the Rivalry

Today, the Texas Tech vs Oklahoma State rivalry remains one of the most intense and closely contested matchups in the Big 12 Conference. Both teams have talented rosters, passionate fan bases, and a deep-seated desire to emerge victorious. The rivalry has also been fueled by the two teams' geographic proximity, with Lubbock and Stillwater being just a few hours apart.

Future of the Rivalry

As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the Texas Tech vs Oklahoma State rivalry is likely to remain one of the most intense and closely contested matchups in the Big 12 Conference. With both teams having talented young players, passionate fan bases, and a deep-seated desire to emerge victorious, the rivalry is likely to continue to produce thrilling games and memorable moments for years to come.