College GameDay’s Surprising Return to Lubbock: What This Texas Tech vs. BYU Showdown Means for the Season

You know that buzz you get when a city just wakes up ready to show the world it’s got game? Well, Lubbock’s that place right now, with ESPN’s “College GameDay” packing its bags and heading straight to the heart of Texas Tech country. After a gutsy 43-20 win over Kansas State, the Red Raiders didn’t just notch a solid victory—they secured a coveted spot on the national stage once again. It’s been a minute—since 2008, actually—since the iconic pregame show rolled through this town, and the energy is palpable. This time, it’s about more than nostalgia; it’s about a high-stakes clash with undefeated BYU at Jones AT&T Stadium, coming up on November 8. Analysts and fans alike are gearing up, with ESPN’s top personalities ready to dissect every play, every call—all live from 8 to 11 a.m. CT. And get this: according to ESPN’s Football Power Index, Texas Tech has a slight edge, holding onto a 58.1% chance to take the W. As I watch this unfold, I can’t help but feel the electric anticipation—this isn’t just another Saturday; it’s a narrative that’s building momentum, and trust me, you’ll want to be front row for this one. LEARN MORE

ESPN’s “College GameDay” is heading back to the Lone Star State — but this time, the spotlight is on Lubbock.

College GameDay is returning to Lubbock

Following Texas Tech’s 43-20 victory over Kansas State, the network announced Saturday night that its flagship pregame show will broadcast live from the Hub City next weekend. It will mark the first time since 2008 that College GameDay has originated from Texas Tech’s campus.

The show last visited Lubbock for the iconic matchup between No. 7 Texas Tech and No. 1 Texas, a game that ended with Michael Crabtree’s unforgettable touchdown catch and a Red Raider upset that rocked college football.

This time, GameDay will return for another marquee showdown — as the Red Raiders host undefeated BYU on Nov. 8 at Jones AT&T Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. CT, with national coverage on either ABC or ESPN.

ESPN personalities had hinted throughout the week that a GameDay stop in Lubbock was contingent on Texas Tech defeating Kansas State. Saturday’s win sealed the deal. The three-hour show will feature Rece Davis, Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, Nick Saban, Pat McAfee, and others breaking down the nation’s top matchups, including the one inside Jones AT&T Stadium, from 8-11 a.m. on Saturday.

According to ESPN’s Football Power Index, Texas Tech enters the matchup as the slight favorite, holding a 58.1% chance to win compared to BYU’s 41.9%.