Hammond, Dickey power Red Raiders to 49-14 rout of Bearkats

A Decisive Second Half

Texas Tech Red Raiders (4-0) secured a decisive 49-14 victory over the visiting Sam Houston Bearkats (1-3) on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Galaxy Stadium in Lubbock. The Red Raiders capitalized on a strong defensive performance and efficient offensive execution to extend their unbeaten season.

While the Bearkats managed to build a lead in the second quarter, Texas Tech’s offensive unit reeled off three consecutive touchdowns in the final two quarters to seal the result. The home crowd of 59,704 witnessed a comprehensive display of control from the Red Raiders, who outscored their opponents 28-14 in the second half alone.

Scoring Sequence and Key Plays

The game began with Texas Tech taking an early 7-0 lead via a one-yard run by Cameron Dickey. However, Sam Houston responded quickly in the second quarter. Austin Romaine returned two interceptions for touchdowns, giving the Bearkats a 14-7 lead.

The momentum shifted back to Texas Tech when Austin Romaine’s defensive pressure led to further scoring opportunities, but it was the Red Raiders’ offense that took control. Tim Burns Jr. and Chris Reed each caught touchdown passes from Landyn Locke, extending Sam Houston’s lead to 21-14 at halftime.

In the third quarter, Cameron Dickey rushed for 13 yards to narrow the gap to 21-14, followed by a 21-yard pass from Will Hammond to Coy Eakin, bringing the score to 28-14. The fourth quarter proved decisive, as Will Hammond ran for 23 yards and Thomas Castellanos connected with Malcolm Simmons for a 27-yard score, pushing the final margin to 49-14.

Statistical Highlights

Will Hammond led the Red Raiders on the ground and through the air, completing 17 of 29 passes for 224 yards and one touchdown, though he also threw three interceptions. Cameron Dickey was the offensive engine, rushing for 91 yards on 12 carries and scoring two touchdowns. Kenny Johnson contributed 60 receiving yards on three catches.

For Sam Houston, Landyn Locke completed 23 of 37 passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns, while also throwing two interceptions. Tim Burns Jr. was the top receiver for the Bearkats with 61 yards on two catches and one touchdown. Alton McCaskill rushed for 25 yards on eight attempts.

The Red Raiders’ ability to convert defensive stops into scoring drives, particularly in the second half, was the defining factor in the outcome.

Sources

ESPN