Texas Tech @ Houston Picks & Props

There’s simply no comparison between these two offenses. The Cougars have put up decent numbers against weak competition, but have been held to 27 points by both Oregon State and Stephen F. Austin. Meanwhile, the Red Raiders are averaging 573 yards and 52.0 points per game. And while Houston has done enough to beat cupcakes, Texas Tech has blown out even its toughest opponent, defeating the Utah Utes 34-10 on the road. The Red Raiders will find ways to score, while the Cougars will struggle to move the ball against quality opposition. I like Texas Tech to win by multiple touchdowns.

UAB transfer Amare Thomas has been the most-targeted (19) wide receiver on the team, responding with 214 yards and a respectable 1.9 yards per route run. Expect an uptick in volume due to a floundering ground game, especially with the game script projected to include the Cougars playing from behind as 11.5-point underdogs.

Despite its blowout of Utah two weeks ago, Texas Tech is still not properly appreciated in the markets. That will change a bit as the Red Raiders shut down Houston's rushing offense, still a one-dimensional approach even if it should not be. That is Willie Fritz's greatest failing, a reluctance to adapt. It pays off in the long term, but it is costly in the short term.