Television
Unexpected Showdown: Texas Tech and Oklahoma State Clash in Streaming-Only Matchup
2024-11-17
The upcoming clash between Texas Tech and Oklahoma State has taken an unexpected turn, as the Big 12 television partners have opted to pass on airing the game, relegating it to ESPN+'s streaming-only platform. Despite the lack of mainstream television coverage, the rivalry between these two programs promises to deliver a captivating contest, as both teams look to make their mark in the suddenly cloudy Big 12 landscape.
A Rivalry Renewed, but with a Twist
### The Unexpected Streaming DebutThe decision by the Big 12 television partners to forgo airing the Texas Tech-Oklahoma State matchup has come as a surprise to many fans. This will mark the first time this year that one of the Red Raiders' Big 12 games has been exclusively available on ESPN's streaming platform. While the lack of traditional television coverage may disappoint some, it presents an opportunity for dedicated fans to engage with the game in a more intimate, digital setting.### A Cloudy Big 12 LandscapeAs the season progresses, the Big 12 race has become increasingly uncertain, with several teams vying for the conference title. However, this particular matchup between Texas Tech and Oklahoma State is not expected to have a significant impact on the overall conference standings. The Red Raiders, with a 4-3 conference record, are all but eliminated from the title picture, while the Cowboys have struggled mightily, entering the game with a 3-7 overall record and a winless conference mark.### A Surprising Reversal of FortunesThe Cowboys' struggles this season have been particularly surprising, as they were widely expected to be contenders for the Big 12 title when the year began. In fact, Oklahoma State was picked to finish third in the preseason Big 12 poll, making their current predicament all the more shocking. Head coach Mike Gundy's team has experienced a dramatic reversal of fortunes, dropping three consecutive home games and four of their last five overall by double-digit margins.### Texas Tech's OpportunityGiven the Cowboys' struggles, the Red Raiders will head to Stillwater with the expectation of securing a victory. However, playing at Oklahoma State's Boone Pickens Stadium has not been an easy task for Texas Tech in recent years. Since winning in Stillwater in 2001, the Red Raiders have managed just one victory in the last ten games played at the Cowboys' home field.### A Chance to Break the TrendThis year, with Oklahoma State's woes, could present an opportunity for Texas Tech to break that trend and emerge victorious. The Red Raiders will be looking to capitalize on the Cowboys' vulnerabilities and secure a much-needed conference win, even if it may not garner significant attention outside of the Lubbock and Stillwater communities.### A Captivating Clash, RegardlessWhile the Big 12 television partners may have passed on airing this matchup, the rivalry between Texas Tech and Oklahoma State remains a captivating one. Fans of both programs will eagerly tune in to ESPN+ to witness the latest chapter in this long-standing battle, eager to see if the Red Raiders can seize the opportunity and emerge victorious in Stillwater.