Texas Tech (8-4-0) at Arkansas (6-6-0)
- When: Dec 27 2024, 7:00 PM
- Where: Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, Memphis, TN
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Texas Tech @ Arkansas
Moneyline
Texas Tech -125
Arkansas +105
Texas Tech @ Arkansas
Point Spread
Texas Tech -2.0 (-110)
Arkansas 2.0 (-110)
Texas Tech @ Arkansas
Total
Over 52.5 (-110)
Under 52.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Starting QB:
Texas Tech: Will Hammond 191 Yds
Arkansas: Taylen Green 2812 Yds
Team Stats
| Texas Tech | Arkansas | |
| 8-4 | Record | 6-6 |
| 3-2 | Away | 2-3 |
| 7-4-1 | ATS | 7-5-0 |
| 8-4-0 | O/U | 6-6-0 |
Game Preview
The Texas Tech Red Raiders and Arkansas Razorbacks square off Friday night in the Liberty Bowl in Memphis, Tennessee. With Texas Tech listed as a narrow 2-point favorite and the total set at 52, bettors face a game full of uncertainty as both teams grapple with significant roster shakeups due to the transfer portal and opt-outs.
Arkansas Razorbacks: A Season of Transition
After finishing the regular season at 6-6, the Razorbacks showed improvement but face a challenging bowl game with several key players missing. The transfer portal has hit Arkansas hard, especially on offense. Among their notable losses are leading rusher Ja’Quinden Jackson (790 yards, 15 touchdowns), top receiver Andrew Armstrong (1,140 yards, 7 touchdowns), and second-leading receiver Isaiah Sategna.
On the defensive side, safety TJ Metcalf and linebacker Brad Spence are also out, leaving gaps in a unit that has struggled to contain opponents at times this season.
Despite the challenges, Arkansas will lean on quarterback Taylen Green, a Boise State transfer who has contributed 2,812 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 521 rushing yards with seven scores. Wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, with 439 yards on the season, becomes the primary target for Green as the Razorbacks aim to finish the season with a winning record.
Betting Angle: Arkansas has endured significant losses, and while Taylen Green offers dual-threat capabilities, the lack of experienced skill players around him could make it tough for the Razorbacks to cover the spread.
Texas Tech Red Raiders: Fresh Faces, Proven Depth
Texas Tech finished the season 8-4 and enters the Liberty Bowl with questions at key positions, most notably quarterback. Starter Behren Morton is out after shoulder surgery, leaving freshman Will Hammond to take over. Hammond has shown potential in limited action, completing 15 of 23 passes for 191 yards and a touchdown.
The Red Raiders also lose leading receiver Josh Kelly (1,023 yards, 9 touchdowns), who opted out to prepare for the NFL Draft. The big question mark is the availability of star running back Tahj Brooks, who racked up 1,505 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns. Brooks has participated in practices, but his game-time status remains uncertain. If he doesn’t play, Texas Tech will turn to freshmen J’Koby Williams and Cam Dickey to carry the load.
Second-leading receiver Caleb Douglas (55 catches, 762 yards, 6 touchdowns) will be the primary target for Hammond, giving the Red Raiders some continuity in the passing game.
Betting Angle: Texas Tech’s depth, particularly at running back, and their ability to adapt to roster changes could give them an edge in a game where Arkansas is similarly depleted.
Key Matchups and Trends:
– Quarterback Duel: Freshman Will Hammond faces off against the more experienced Taylen Green. While Green’s dual-threat ability is an advantage, Hammond’s efficiency in limited action suggests he could surprise.
– Rushing Attack: If Tahj Brooks plays, Texas Tech’s ground game could dominate. Without him, the Red Raiders will rely on untested freshmen, evening the playing field.
– Defense: Arkansas’ roster losses on defense may leave them vulnerable, especially against Texas Tech’s balanced offensive approach.
Predictions and Best Bets:
– Spread: Texas Tech -2.0
Texas Tech’s offensive depth and the uncertainty surrounding Arkansas’ key players make the Red Raiders a safer bet. Expect them to lean on their defense and rushing game to edge out a win.
– Total: Under 52.5
With both teams missing critical offensive pieces, expect a slower-paced game with fewer scoring opportunities.
– Player Prop to Watch: Taylen Green Over 225 Total Yards
Green will need to carry the load for Arkansas, making this a favorable spot for his total yardage prop.
Conclusion:
While both teams are dealing with roster turnover, Texas Tech’s consistency and depth at key positions make them the more reliable pick in this matchup. Arkansas’ struggles to replace key offensive players and their depleted defense will likely keep them from covering the spread. Bet on Texas Tech to win and keep the total under in what should be a tightly contested Liberty Bowl.
Liberty Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Texas Tech 27-21
The Pick: Texas Tech -2 & Under 52½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364
- Liberty Bowl Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
