Headline: Fans Rush the Field as Wyoming Secures Thrilling 2OT Victory Over Texas Tech
Subheadline: Wyoming stuns Texas Tech with a 35-33 win in double overtime in season opener
LARAMIE, Wyo. – In a dramatic season opener, Wyoming delivered an exhilarating 35-33 victory over Texas Tech in double overtime. The thrilling game concluded with quarterback Andrew Peasley connecting with tight end John Michael Gyllenborg for an 11-yard touchdown pass on a critical fourth-and-7 play. Running back Sam Scott sealed the win by punching in the 2-point conversion.
Tyler Shough, the Red Raiders’ quarterback, put on an impressive performance, throwing for 338 yards and three touchdowns. Shough found Jerand Bradley for a 15-yard score, giving Texas Tech a 33-27 lead. However, their hopes were dashed as the conversion pass failed.
The dramatic conclusion sent the crowd of 26,450 fans rushing the field at War Memorial Stadium. The game had experienced a delay of 78 minutes due to a lightning storm, adding to the intensity of the moment.
Peasley, who endured a big hit from nose tackle Jaylon Hutchings at the end of regulation, showcased resilience by running for a 5-yard touchdown in the first overtime possession.
Reflecting on the game, Peasley shared his thoughts in a postgame interview, “For this game, it was just take them to the deep end of the pool, and they’re going to fold… I’m just happy to come away with the W.”
Texas Tech’s Tahj Brooks countered with a 6-yard touchdown run in the second overtime to prolong the battle. Nonetheless, Wyoming’s determination proved insurmountable for the Red Raiders.
The game initially favored Texas Tech, as they raced to a 17-0 lead, capitalizing on fumbles by Wyoming running backs Jamari Ferrell and D.Q. James. However, the Cowboys responded with a 20-0 scoring spree, ignited by John Hoyland’s career-long 56-yard field goal.
Peasley faced minor injuries throughout the game, but his determination remained unwavering. “I always say ‘I’m hurt, not injured,’ so I can still play. That’s kind of my motto… I just kept going at it, kept making my reads, and it turned out,” he stated.
The Red Raiders had entered the season with high expectations following victories over powerhouse programs Oklahoma and Texas in 2022. However, they were among four Big 12 teams that stumbled on Saturday. Baylor, TCU, and West Virginia all suffered losses in their respective Week 1 games, with only the Mountaineers playing as underdogs.
Considering the expansion of the Big 12 conference, Texas Tech may steer clear of scheduling road games against Group of 5 opponents in the future.
The thrilling victory by Wyoming kickstarts their season positively, providing them with a memorable win against a formidable opponent.
Note: The Associated Press contributed to this report.