Cincinnati stuns undefeated Texas Tech 37-24 for first top 10 win since 2021
Bearcats dominate on both sides of ball, securing their most monumental win of the Scott Satterfield era.
On October 24, 2026, in Cincinnati, Ohio, the Cincinnati Bearcats stunned the undefeated Texas Tech Red Raiders with a 37-24 victory at Nippert Stadium. This marked the Bearcats' first top 10 win since 2021. The Texas Tech Red Raiders had been on an unbeaten streak, winning 14 of their last 15 matchups against Big 12 competition, with 12 victories coming by at least 22 points.
Cincinnati had been struggling late in the season, losing two consecutive games after a 4-0 start. However, conditions were perfect for an upset on Saturday. Cincinnati finally ended Texas Tech's perfect season with a commanding performance, scoring 37 points to Texas Tech's 24. The Bearcats' star quarterback JC French IV threw four touchdown passes, while the team's top-ranked rushing offense added 173 yards and two touchdowns.
Running back Cole Tabb was instrumental, rushing for 173 yards and scoring two touchdowns, including a game-winning 58-yard dash with 6:06 left. The defense also played a crucial role, holding Texas Tech scoreless for the first 36 minutes. Safety MJ Cannon made a leaping interception with just 31 seconds left in the half, leading to a 24-6 halftime lead.
The Bearcats' safeties also contributed significantly, with eight tackles, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup. Unfortunately, Texas Tech's perfect season came to an end when JC French IV threw a controversial interception, which was later upheld as a touchdown despite a forceful hit from Texas Tech's cornerback Brice Pollock. This interception was followed by another interception, leading to a missed 38-yard field goal attempt.
The Bearcats' defense shone in the final 59 seconds of the game, preventing three field goals and a touchdown. The victory put Cincinnati firmly in the top 10, lifting their record to 5-0 within the city of Cincinnati this year, including 4-0 at Nippert Stadium. With this win, the Bearcats aim to propel themselves into a stronger finish under head coach Scott Satterfield.
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