Texas Tech vs Arizona State became a Big 12 conference rivalry when Arizona State joined the league in 2024 following the Pac-12’s dissolution. Consequently, what was previously an occasional bowl game matchup between two regional programs is now an annual conference game with playoff implications for both the Red Raiders and the Sun Devils. This guide covers the series history, programs, and what makes this new Big 12 matchup interesting.
New Big 12 Conference Rivals
Arizona State’s move to the Big 12 in 2024 created immediate conference rivalries with Texas Tech and the other Big 12 programs. Furthermore, the addition of Arizona State, Colorado, Utah, and other former Pac-12 programs significantly expanded the Big 12’s geographic footprint across the West and Southwest. As a result, Texas Tech — a West Texas program — now faces Arizona State in a geographical neighbor matchup that makes natural sense given the regional proximity and overlapping recruiting territories in the Desert Southwest.
Texas Tech Red Raiders Program
Texas Tech competes in the Big 12 and plays home games at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock. The Red Raiders are known for their passing-oriented offensive systems and passionate West Texas fan base that makes road trips to Lubbock a challenging experience for visiting teams. Furthermore, Texas Tech’s history of Air Raid offense innovation gives the program a distinct identity in college football. As a result, Red Raiders games typically feature high-scoring affairs with significant passing volume that creates entertaining football for neutral fans.
Arizona State Sun Devils Program
Arizona State competes in the Big 12 after leaving the Pac-12 and plays home games at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. The Sun Devils benefit from being in the Phoenix metropolitan area — one of the fastest-growing markets in the United States — with recruiting access to a growing Arizona high school talent pool. Furthermore, ASU’s transition to the Big 12 brought new competition and recruiting territory that the program is actively developing. As a result, the Sun Devils are building their identity as a Big 12 program after decades as a Pac-12 member.
Key Matchup Factors
When Texas Tech and Arizona State meet in Big 12 play, the primary factor is typically the Red Raiders’ passing efficiency against the Sun Devils’ defensive scheme. Furthermore, both programs compete for warm-weather recruits in the Southwest who often compare offers from Texas Tech’s Lubbock campus and Arizona State’s Tempe campus — creating a natural talent pipeline competition that extends beyond the field. As a result, the Texas Tech-Arizona State matchup carries recruiting stakes alongside conference standing implications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Texas Tech played Arizona State in football?
Yes. Texas Tech and Arizona State have met in college football in bowl games and nonconference scheduling. The two programs have similar regional profiles as schools from large Southwestern states with active football traditions.
What conference is Arizona State football in?
Arizona State competes in the Big 12 Conference after joining in 2024 when the Pac-12 dissolved. The Sun Devils now face Big 12 conference opponents including Texas Tech, TCU, Baylor, Kansas State, and others in the same league.
Are Texas Tech and Arizona State now in the same conference?
Yes. As of 2024, both Texas Tech and Arizona State compete in the Big 12 Conference, making them conference opponents with annual standings implications rather than occasional bowl game opponents.
Where does Arizona State play home football games?
Arizona State plays home games at Mountain America Stadium (formerly Sun Devil Stadium) in Tempe, Arizona. The stadium holds approximately 53,000 fans and sits adjacent to the ASU campus at the base of A Mountain.
Who won the most recent Texas Tech vs Arizona State game?
Visit our Texas Sports section for the most recent Texas Tech vs Arizona State result, box score, and full game recap with player statistics from their Big 12 conference matchup.
Follow Texas Tech Red Raiders in our Texas Sports section. You can also read our Texas Tech Football Schedule for all 2025 Big 12 opponents. Additionally, check our Arkansas vs Texas Tech guide for another Red Raiders matchup breakdown.
