BYU tops Texas Tech 27-14 for a happy homecoming in Provo

PROVO, Utah (KIFI) - The 5-2 BYU Cougars are just one win away from bowl eligibility thanks to a 27-14 win Saturday over the Texas Tech Red Raiders on homecoming.

A strong first half and five takeaways on defense were key to the victory for the Cougs.

BYU scored 24 of its 27 points in the first half to take a 17-point lead to the break, and the defense kept that lead at double digits the rest of the way.

The defense forced five turnovers with three fumble recoveries, including one for a touchdown, and picked off Texas Tech QB Jake Strong twice to keep the Red Raiders from finding a rhythm offensively.

Next up, Big 12 conference play heats up for the Cougs with their first matchup against a Top 10 opponent this season, the Texas Longhorns in Austin.

Kickoff for that game next Saturday is at 1:30 p.m. MT on Local News 8.