Texas Tech Red Raiders vs Kent State Golden Flashes Picks and Predictions September 6th 2025

Texas Tech vs Kent State Picks and Predictions September 6th 2025

The Texas Tech Red Raiders enter Week 2 as overwhelming favorites against the Kent State Golden Flashes, but their quarterback situation adds a layer of intrigue to Saturday’s non-conference clash in Lubbock.

Starting QB Behren Morton exited last week’s 67-7 dismantling of Arkansas-Pine Bluff after taking a low hit in the second quarter. Though head coach Joey McGuire confirmed Morton avoided serious injury, his status remains in limbo due to muscle soreness.

“We’re going to take it day by day,” McGuire said. “If he’s good to go, he’s playing. If not, we’re confident in our backups.”

Those backups—Will Hammond and Mitch Griffis—both performed well in relief. Hammond threw for 92 yards and added a 64-yard rushing TD. Griffis, a Wake Forest transfer, tossed a touchdown pass of his own.

Quarterback Carousel?

The ideal scenario is Morton starting to continue building chemistry with new offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich. But given the opponent and spread—Texas Tech is favored by 48.5 points—there’s no need to force it.

Still, the coaching staff is aware that continuity matters.

“He and Mack are as aligned as a quarterback and coordinator can be,” McGuire added. “We don’t want to disrupt that rhythm unless we have to.”

Kent State Ends Losing Skid with Special Teams Heroics

The Golden Flashes picked up a much-needed win to snap a 21-game losing streak, edging Merrimack 21-17 thanks to a 100-yard kickoff return by Da’Realyst Clark. It was a heart-pounding finish for interim head coach Mark Carney, who is battling for more than just wins—his job may be on the line.

“This group has heart,” Carney said. “They believe in each other, and they’re hungry.”

Carney took over after Kenni Burns was let go in April. His future with the program is uncertain beyond this season, as Kent State’s athletic department plans to conduct a national search for a permanent coach.

By the Numbers

Key Matchups to Watch

Even without Morton, Texas Tech has firepower. Their skill players and scheme should outclass Kent State’s defense regardless of who is under center.

Kent State’s Two-QB Look

The combo of Dru DeShields and CJ Montes produced modest results in Week 1. They’ll need to be nearly perfect to crack a Texas Tech defense that allowed just 1 touchdown in its opener.

Special Teams X-Factor

If Kent State can repeat its special teams success—like Clark’s 100-yard return—they might generate some momentum. But that’s a tall ask against a deep and fast Red Raiders unit.

Expert Betting Picks

This matchup is more about margin than result. The Red Raiders will win, but can Kent State make it respectable?

For more betting insights and daily picks, visit College Football Picks and NCAAF Odds.

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