Liberty Bowl 2024: Arkansas vs. Texas Tech – Live Updates, Key Highlights, and Expert Analysis

 

Arkansas vs. Texas Tech: Liberty Bowl Showdown

Introduction

The 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl features a compelling matchup between the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Texas Tech Red Raiders. This game not only renews an old Southwest Conference rivalry but also provides both teams an opportunity to conclude their seasons on a high note.

Team Overviews

Arkansas Razorbacks

• Season Record: 6–6 overall, 3–5 in SEC play.
• Head Coach: Sam Pittman, in his fifth year leading the Razorbacks.
• Bowl History: This appearance marks Arkansas's seventh in the Liberty Bowl, holding a 3–3 record in previous games.

Texas Tech Red Raiders

• Season Record: 8–4 overall, 6–3 in Big 12 play.
• Head Coach: Joey McGuire, completing his third season with the Red Raiders.
• Bowl History: Texas Tech returns to the Liberty Bowl for the second time, having won their previous appearance in 2021.

Game Details

• Date: December 27, 2024.
• Time: 6:00 p.m. CST.
• Location: Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, Memphis, Tennessee.
• Broadcast: ESPN.

Key Matchups and Players to Watch

Arkansas Offense vs. Texas Tech Defense

• Rodney Hill (RB, Arkansas): Hill's explosive 70-yard run early in the game set the tone for the Razorbacks' ground attack.
  
  
• Taylen Green (QB, Arkansas): Demonstrated mobility with a 12-yard touchdown run, highlighting his dual-threat capability.
  
  

Texas Tech Offense Challenges

• Behren Morton (QB, Texas Tech): Underwent shoulder surgery and was unavailable for the game, leading to true freshman Will Hammond stepping in as the starter.
  
  
• Tahj Brooks (RB, Texas Tech): The Red Raiders' leading rusher, with 1,505 yards and 17 touchdowns this season, was notably absent during warmups, indicating he did not play.
  
  

Historical Context

This game marks the 38th meeting between Arkansas and Texas Tech, with the Razorbacks leading the series 29–8. The teams last met in 2015, making this a significant renewal of their historic rivalry.

Viewing Information

• TV Channel: ESPN.
• Live Stream: Available on ESPN+ and Fubo (free trial available).
  
  

Conclusion

The Liberty Bowl offers a stage for both Arkansas and Texas Tech to showcase their talents and end the season with a statement victory. Fans can anticipate a game filled with strategic plays, standout performances, and the rekindling of a classic rivalry.

For live coverage and in-depth analysis, viewers can tune in to ESPN or stream the game through the available platforms.