Tabb, French power Bearcats to 37-24 upset of No. 8 Texas Tech

Bearcats Close With Decisive Runs

Cincinnati’s late surge, anchored by two critical rushing touchdowns, secured a 37-24 victory over No. 8 Texas Tech on Saturday at Nippert Stadium. The Bearcats, playing as the home team, overcame a 24-6 deficit entering the third quarter to claim their fifth win of the season.

The game saw a dramatic shift in momentum during the final two quarters, where Cincinnati’s offense found its rhythm while Texas Tech struggled to maintain its early lead. The final score reflects a team that refused to fold despite a slow start, ultimately outscoring the visitors 16-9 in the second half to seal the upset.

Attendance at the venue reached 38,088 for the contest, which took place on October 24, 2026.

Second-Half Surge

The Bearcats’ turnaround began in the third period, where they scored 15 points to Texas Tech’s nine. The pivotal moment came when Peyton Morgan returned an interception 53 yards for a touchdown, adding six points to the scoreboard. Although Cincinnati failed to convert the two-point pass, the turnover shifted field position significantly in their favor.

Following that play, quarterback JC French IV connected with Larenzo Fenner on a 17-yard pass for another touchdown, extending the lead to 31-15. This sequence of plays, combined with a 42-yard field goal by Stone Harrington for Texas Tech, set the stage for the decisive fourth-quarter battle where Cincinnati would ultimately pull away.

Offensive Performance

JC French IV was the engine of the Cincinnati offense, completing 19 of 30 passes for 172 yards and four touchdowns, though he also threw two interceptions. His accuracy and ability to find the end zone were crucial in overcoming the early deficit. On the ground, Cole Tabb was equally impactful, rushing for 173 yards on 16 carries and scoring one touchdown.

Tabb’s 58-yard run in the fourth quarter, followed by a failed two-point conversion, proved to be a significant blow to the Red Raiders’ hopes. Zylan Perry contributed on the receiving end with four catches for 43 yards, supporting the dual-threat attack that defined the Bearcats’ winning effort.

Texas Tech Effort

Despite the loss, Texas Tech’s offense showed flashes of brilliance. Will Hammond completed 24 of 37 passes for 227 yards, with one interception, leading the Red Raiders to a 6-1 record. J’Koby Williams provided a solid rushing presence with 81 yards on 12 carries, while Kenny Johnson led the receiving corps with seven catches for 81 yards.

The Red Raiders started strong, taking a 6-3 lead in the first quarter with field goals from Stone Harrington, but they were unable to sustain their offensive pressure against the resurgent Bearcats. The final records stand at 5-2 for Cincinnati and 6-1 for Texas Tech.

Sources

ESPN