Texas Tech (8-4, 5-3) vs. Arkansas Razorbacks (6-6, 3-5)

When: Friday, December 27th @ 6:00 pm
Where: Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium | Memphis, TN
TV & Streaming: ESPN
Radio: TuneIn Radio
The Line: Arkansas -1.5
Weather: 62-58, Showers

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal’s Don Williams: Texas Tech football, Arkansas pit patchwork lineups in Liberty Bowl

McGuire’s been coy about the biggest remaining unknown: whether Doak Award Semifinalist Tahj Brooks will play. The two-time 1,500-yard rusher has continued practicing with the team this week in Memphis, though it’s common for seniors in his circumstances to skip the postseason.

“I’d say it’s 50-50,” McGuire said. “I’m letting him totally decide that.”
True freshmen J’Koby Williams and Cameron Dickey, who have played in nearly every game and rushed for 270 yards and two touchdowns between them, will go if Brooks sits.

24/7 Sports’ Brad Crawford: College football transfer portal 2025 team rankings: Texas Tech, LSU surge in top 25 update

The Red Raiders are making waves this month in college football free agency. Illinois State offensive lineman Hunter Zambrano announced for Texas Tech soon after the winter window opened and he ranked as the No. 1 overall interior offensive lineman available. Zambrano is a big boost to a Texas Tech offensive line needing proven bodies. The only Big 12 team currently ranked inside 247Sports’ top 10 portal haul, the Red Raiders are serious about competing for a league title next fall under Joey McGuire.

CBS Sports’ Chip Patterson: Arkansas vs. Texas Tech prediction, pick, Liberty Bowl odds, spread, live stream, where to watch, TV channel

Liberty Bowl prediction, picks
Even with all the opt-outs and injuries impacting the offenses for both teams, this still has the look of a game that could turn into a high-scoring shootout. Texas Tech was one of the top “over” teams in the country this season, hitting the over 67% of the time even while having some of the highest totals, on average, in the country. The Red Raiders play fast, score often and have a defense that can give up a lot of points as well. Pick: Over 51.5

Memphis Commercial Appeal’s Wendell Shepherd, Jr.: What to know about Tahj Brooks, Texas Tech football before Liberty Bowl game vs. Arkansas

Dallas Morning News’ Justin Apodaca: Texas Tech prediction: Red Raiders look to extend bowl streak vs. Arkansas in Liberty Bowl