Oregon Ducks vs Texas Tech: College Football Playoff Schedule & Viewing Guide

The College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals are finally here. One of the most anticipated matchups features the Oregon Ducks facing the Texas Tech Red Raiders at the Orange Bowl.

Both teams have had stellar seasons. This game’s got all the ingredients for a thriller, with a CFP semifinal spot hanging in the balance.

Let’s dig into what makes this must-watch football.

The Showdown: Oregon Ducks vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders

No. 5 Oregon Ducks, sitting at 12-1, will square off against the No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders, who also boast a 12-1 record. The game kicks off Thursday, Jan. 1 at 12 p.m. ET at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

You can catch it on ESPN or stream it on Fubo. Both squads have proved they belong among the nation’s best, so it feels like one of the most evenly matched games of the CFP quarterfinals.

Oregon Ducks: A Team on the Rise

The Ducks have a lot of momentum right now. Since losing to undefeated Indiana, they’ve rattled off seven straight wins—including three over top-25 teams.

Most recently, they put up 51 points on JMU in a statement opening-round win. That offense? Pretty wild to watch.

Oregon’s game is all about pace and pressure. They stretch the field vertically and keep the chains moving with a punishing run game.

They’re eighth in the country for yards per game, averaging 465.8. On the ground, they average 217.1 yards, good for 13th nationally.

Their third-down efficiency stands out too, converting 48.4%—again, 13th in the nation. Not too shabby.

Key Players to Watch

Dante Moore, the Ducks’ quarterback, is the engine that makes this offense hum. He’s looked more comfortable as the season’s gone on, making quick reads and keeping defenses guessing.

On defense, Oregon’s tough. They’re eighth in points allowed, giving up just 16.6 per game.

Texas Tech Red Raiders: A Balanced Attack

Texas Tech, in contrast, has had a few weeks off after a first-round bye. The layoff doesn’t seem to have dented their confidence—this is the best season in program history.

Twelve wins and a Big 12 championship didn’t come easy. They did it with balance, discipline, and a knack for seizing the moment.

Their defense is one of the best around. Ranked No. 2 in scoring defense, they allow just 11.3 points per game.

They’re opportunistic and physical, always looking to take the ball away and shut down big plays. That makes them a nightmare matchup for Oregon’s high-powered offense.

Key Players to Watch

Jacob Rodriguez, linebacker, is the heartbeat of the Red Raiders’ defense. He’s everywhere—tracking the ball, making tackles, coming up with big plays when it matters most.

Offensively, Texas Tech can hurt you in a bunch of ways. They’ll run it, throw it, or just adapt to whatever the game demands.

The Stakes: A Season-Defining Moment

For both teams, this game is bigger than just one more step toward a national title. Oregon’s still stinging from last year’s blowout loss to Ohio State in this same round.

That memory’s stuck with them for a whole year, and they’re hungry to show they belong. Texas Tech, meanwhile, has gone all-in on building a roster to win right now.

They’ve poured in money and effort to get here. This is their shot to prove it was all worth it and maybe punch their ticket to the next level.

What to Expect

Honestly, with teams this evenly matched, who knows what’ll happen? Oregon’s explosive offense will try to crack Texas Tech’s stonewall defense.

The Red Raiders’ balanced attack will look for any cracks in Oregon’s armor. Feels like it’ll come down to who avoids mistakes and makes the most of their chances.

Conclusion

The College Football Playoff quarterfinals are almost here. The Orange Bowl matchup between the Oregon Ducks and Texas Tech Red Raiders is turning heads everywhere.

Both teams have strong records. Their rosters? Pretty well-balanced, honestly.

This one could turn into a classic. If you love high-scoring plays or gritty, stubborn defense, there’s a little bit for everyone.

It’d be a shame to miss it, wouldn’t it?

For more on the game schedule or where to catch the action, check out the Oregon Ducks CFB game schedule.