The Texas Tech Red Raiders football team is embarking on a new chapter, officially naming Will Hammond as their starting quarterback for the upcoming 2026 college football season. This announcement marks a significant transition for the program, as Hammond steps into a pivotal role, aiming to lead the Red Raiders to continued success following a strong previous season. The team's 2025 campaign was particularly noteworthy, culminating in a Big 12 championship and a commendable run to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. With Hammond at the helm, the team is set to face new challenges and opportunities, with an eye on returning to elite competition.
Hammond's journey to the starting position has been a gradual one, involving two seasons with the Red Raiders where he gained valuable experience, albeit with limited playing time. His previous performances show a developing passer, and the upcoming season will be a true test of his leadership and capabilities. The Red Raiders have a competitive schedule ahead, with their initial games setting the tone for their conference aspirations and national standing. The transition at quarterback is a critical development for the team, influencing both strategic play and team dynamics as they strive for another impactful season.
Will Hammond Ascends to Starting Quarterback Role
The Texas Tech football organization has formally declared Will Hammond as the primary signal-caller for the 2026 collegiate football calendar. This decision signifies a fresh start for the Red Raiders, placing the offensive leadership in Hammond's hands. He succeeds Behren Morton, who guided the team through a successful 2025 season. Hammond's promotion comes after two years within the program, during which he gained experience and developed his skills. The team's aspirations for the upcoming season are high, building upon their recent achievements, including a conference title and a deep playoff run. The focus is now on how Hammond will leverage his past learning and new leadership role to steer the team forward.
Will Hammond's journey to becoming the starting quarterback for Texas Tech culminates after two seasons of gradual integration into the team. During the 2024 season, he recorded 471 passing yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, followed by an improved performance in 2025 with 680 yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions. He now steps into the shoes of Behren Morton, who previously excelled, throwing for 2,780 yards, 22 touchdowns, and six interceptions with a 66% completion rate. The Red Raiders are coming off an impressive 12-2 record in 2025, securing the Big 12 championship and reaching the College Football Playoff quarterfinals before their elimination by the Oregon Ducks. Hammond is tasked with maintaining this high level of performance and leading the team back to contention for the playoffs this season.
Kickstarting the Season: Key Matchups and Schedule Highlights
The inaugural game of the Will Hammond era is scheduled for September 5th, with the Red Raiders hosting the Abilene Christian Wildcats. This home opener will be a crucial first test for the new starting quarterback and the team as a whole. Following this initial matchup, Texas Tech will embark on a road trip to face the Oregon State Beavers on September 12th, presenting an early challenge against an out-of-conference opponent. The schedule then brings them back home on September 18th for their Big 12 conference debut against the Houston Cougars, a game that will be significant for their conference standings and early season momentum. All three of these pivotal early-season encounters are slated for prime-time broadcasts, highlighting their importance.
The much-anticipated commencement of the Hammond era for the Texas Tech Red Raiders football program is set for September 5th, with a home game against the Abilene Christian Wildcats. This match will serve as the first official opportunity for Hammond to demonstrate his leadership and skills as the starting quarterback. A week later, on September 12th, the Red Raiders will travel to confront the Oregon State Beavers in an important non-conference showdown. Subsequently, on September 18th, they will return to their home turf to kick off their Big 12 campaign against the Houston Cougars. The game against Abilene Christian on September 5th is scheduled for a 7 p.m. ET kickoff, airing on FS1, signifying the prominent visibility of these early-season contests. All three of the Red Raiders' initial games are scheduled for prime-time slots, underscoring the high expectations and significant interest surrounding their performance.
