The 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl promises to be an unforgettable showdown as the Texas Tech Red Raiders and Arkansas Razorbacks rekindle a fierce rivalry that dates back to the days of the Southwest Conference. The game will take place on December 27, 2024, at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee, at 6 p.m. (EST). This is the first time these two teams will meet in a bowl game, making it a must-watch for college football fans.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Red Raiders or the Razorbacks, the AutoZone Liberty Bowl is sure to deliver high-stakes action, as both teams look to end their seasons on a high note. Read on for everything you need to know about this exciting bowl game, from the history of both teams to what to expect on game day.
Game Overview and Date
The 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl will feature two programs with rich football legacies. On December 27, Texas Tech will face Arkansas in what promises to be a thrilling game. The Liberty Bowl has long been one of college football’s premier bowl games, and this matchup will certainly live up to the hype.
Game Date: December 27, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m. EST
Venue: Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, Memphis, Tennessee
Broadcast: ESPN
This will mark the Red Raiders’42nd bowl appearance and the Razorbacks’ 45th. Though they’ve met on the field in regular season play, this is the first time the two teams will face each other in a postseason bowl game, adding an exciting new chapter to their historic rivalry.
Bowl History: A Historic Rivalry Rekindled
Texas Tech Bowl History
The Texas Tech Red Raiders have a long and storied bowl history, making their 42nd appearance in a postseason game. For Red Raider fans, the AutoZone Liberty Bowl is a familiar venue, with the team having made an impression there in recent years.
In 2021, Texas Tech delivered a dominating 34-7 victory over Mississippi State in their first-ever appearance at the Liberty Bowl. That win sparked a three-game winning streak in bowl games, the longest in the program’s history.
As Texas Tech returns to the AutoZone Liberty Bowl in 2024, the team is eager to add another victory to its impressive bowl record. Fans of the Red Raiders will be looking to see if their team can end the season with a 9-win record and a thrilling bowl victory.
Arkansas Bowl History
The Arkansas Razorbacks, meanwhile, are no strangers to postseason football, with this being their 45th bowl appearance. Arkansas has a strong legacy in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, having made six previous appearances dating back to their first game in 1971 against Tennessee.
Most notably, the Razorbacks have faced a variety of tough opponents, including Auburn, Georgia, East Carolina, and Kansas State, with each game adding to the mystique of this historic bowl. In 2022, Head Coach Sam Pittman led Arkansas to a triple-overtime victory over Kansas, a thrilling conclusion to the season.
As the Razorbacks head to Memphis once again, they will look to improve on their already impressive bowl record and add to the growing legacy of Arkansas football in postseason play.
Quote: “The AutoZone Liberty Bowl is a prestigious event that represents a great opportunity for our program to showcase itself on a national stage,” said Joey McGuire, Head Coach of the Red Raiders.
Head-to-Head: Texas Tech vs Arkansas
Historical Rivalry in the Southwest Conference
The history between Texas Tech and Arkansas goes all the way back to the Southwest Conference (SWC) days, a league in which the two teams faced off annually from 1957 to 1991. Their rivalry is one that fans in both communities remember fondly, and while the two teams have not met frequently in recent years, the significance of this game extends beyond just the 2024 season.
Arkansas Record: 29-8 all-time against Texas Tech
Last Meeting: 2015 (Arkansas won)
Most Memorable Matchup: 1991, the final year of the Southwest Conference rivalry.
Although the teams have met only once in recent years, their history in the Southwest Conference continues to fuel the excitement around this game. While Arkansas holds the edge in the all-time series, the Red Raiders are eager to change that narrative in Memphis.
Recent Meetings and Results
The two teams’ last regular-season matchup took place in 2015 when Arkansas won in a dominant performance at home. The Red Raiders, however, responded in the following year, defeating Arkansas 35-24 in Fayetteville.
Though Arkansas leads the all-time series, the fact that this is their first-ever postseason meeting adds extra intrigue to the matchup. With both teams aiming for a strong finish to their seasons, this bowl game will be a critical opportunity for each to make a statement.
Texas Tech Red Raiders: Team Preview
2024 Season Recap
The Texas Tech Red Raiders enter the 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl with an impressive season behind them. The team has shown great resilience, and under the leadership of Head Coach Joey McGuire, they have positioned themselves to potentially end the season with nine wins—a strong statement for the program.
Key Wins: Texas Tech secured major wins against teams like Oklahoma State and Baylor, showcasing the talent and determination of the squad.
Notable Losses: Despite a few setbacks, including a loss to Kansas, the Red Raiders have proved their mettle in high-pressure games.
Key Players to Watch
Tyler Shough (QB) A dual-threat quarterback, Tyler Shough has had a stellar season, leading the offense with his arm and legs. He is expected to be a key player in Texas Tech’s efforts to control the game tempo and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Tahj Brooks (RB) Tahj Brooks has been the driving force behind Texas Tech’s ground game, contributing significantly both in rushing and receiving. His ability to break through Arkansas’ defense will be crucial to the Red Raiders’ success.
Coach Joey McGuire’s Impact
Under the leadership of Joey McGuire, Texas Tech has transformed into a more disciplined and competitive team. McGuire, who has taken the Red Raiders to three straight bowl games, aims to lead them to victory in the 2024 Liberty Bowl, continuing his streak of success.
Quote: “We’re looking forward to showcasing our program in one of the most historic bowl games in college football. The Liberty Bowl is a huge opportunity for us to finish strong.”
Arkansas Razorbacks: Team Preview
2024 Season Recap
The Arkansas Razorbacks have had a rollercoaster season but have managed to secure a bowl berth once again under the leadership of Head Coach Sam Pittman. With key wins over teams like Mississippi State and Auburn, the Razorbacks have demonstrated their resilience.
Key Wins: Arkansas’ victory over Texas A&M was a highlight, with KJ Jefferson leading the charge.
Tough Losses: The Razorbacks struggled at times, particularly against LSU, but they have bounced back when needed most.
Key Players to Watch
KJ Jefferson (QB) As the leader of the Razorbacks, KJ Jefferson is the player to watch. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs makes him a constant threat to any defense. If Arkansas is to emerge victorious, Jefferson will need to be at his best.
Raheim Sanders (RB) Raheim Sanders, also known as “Rocket,” is one of the most explosive running backs in the SEC. His ability to break tackles and find open space will be key to Arkansas controlling the ground game against Texas Tech.
Coach Sam Pittman’s Leadership
Sam Pittman has done a remarkable job leading the Razorbacks to four bowl appearances in five years, solidifying his position as one of the SEC’s top coaches. His ability to keep the team focused and ready for big games has been a hallmark of his tenure at Arkansas.
Quote: “We’re excited to take on Texas Tech in the Liberty Bowl. It’s a chance for us to continue our tradition of success in postseason play.”
As the 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl draws near, anticipation is building for one of college football’s most exciting matchups. The Texas Tech Red Raiders will face the Arkansas Razorbacks in what promises to be a thrilling contest at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee. Set for December 27 at 6 p.m. ET, this game marks the first time these two historic programs will meet in a postseason bowl game, though their rivalry goes back decades.
This game will showcase not only the unique history of both teams but also their quest to end the season on a high note. Whether you’re a Texas Tech fan looking to cheer on the Red Raiders or an Arkansas supporter excited for another bowl appearance, here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated showdown.
Game Details and Key Information
The AutoZone Liberty Bowl has a rich history as one of college football’s oldest bowl games. Entering its 66th year, this bowl game has long been a premier event, pitting the best of the SEC against top-tier teams from the Big 12. For Arkansas and Texas Tech, the stakes are high as both teams look to finish their seasons with a victory.
Date: December 27, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, Memphis, TN
Broadcast: ESPN
This will be a historic first bowl meeting between these two teams, who have previously faced off in regular season play but never in a postseason matchup
What to Expect: Key Matchups and Players to Watch
Texas Tech Red Raiders: A Strong Bowl History
With a 42nd bowl appearance on the horizon, Texas Tech has plenty to play for in Memphis. The Red Raiders are looking to extend their three-game bowl-winning streak, which began with a dominant victory over Mississippi State in the 2021 AutoZone Liberty Bowl. Under head coach Joey McGuire, Texas Tech has built a resilient program that has seen consistent success in big games.
Key Players to Watch for Texas Tech
Tyler Shough (QB): A dual-threat quarterback, Shough has been the heart of the Red Raider offense. His mobility and strong arm will be crucial against the Razorbacks’ defense.
Tahj Brooks (RB): A force in the backfield, Brooks will be key in controlling the ground game for Texas Tech. His ability to break tackles and find open spaces will help keep Arkansas on its toes.
With a potential 9-win season in sight, Texas Tech is eager to finish strong and showcase its talent on the national stage.
Quote from Coach McGuire: “We’re excited to be part of this historic bowl game and look forward to giving our fans a performance to remember. Arkansas is a great team, and we respect them, but we’re ready to compete.”
Arkansas Razorbacks: Strong Bowl Pedigree
For Arkansas, the 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl will mark their 45th bowl appearance. The Razorbacks have consistently shown their resilience in postseason play under Head Coach Sam Pittman. This game is particularly special as it will be Arkansas’ seventh appearance in the Liberty Bowl. With a record of 6-0 in previous Liberty Bowl games, the Razorbacks have a strong tradition of success in this venue.
Key Players to Watch for Arkansas
KJ Jefferson (QB): Jefferson is the key to Arkansas’ offense. With his ability to make plays with both his arm and legs, Jefferson will be a pivotal player in this matchup.
Raheim “Rocket” Sanders (RB): Sanders, one of the most explosive running backs in the SEC, will be critical to Arkansas’ ground attack. His speed and power will be essential for the Razorbacks to control the tempo of the game.
Quote from Coach Pittman: “We’ve been here before, and we know what it takes to win a bowl game. Texas Tech will bring a great challenge, but we’re focused on finishing the season with a win and adding another Liberty Bowl victory to our legacy.”
How to Watch the AutoZone Liberty Bowl
For fans who can’t make the trip to Memphis, there are several ways to enjoy the game:
Broadcast: The 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl will be broadcast on ESPN, so you can catch all the action from the comfort of your home.
Streaming: You can also stream the game on the ESPN app or through your cable provider’s digital platform.
For those in Memphis, attending the game in person at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium will provide the ultimate bowl experience.
Tickets for the 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Ticket Availability for Arkansas Fans
Season Ticket Holders and Razorback Foundation Members: You can request tickets directly through the Razorback Ticket Center until December 10 at 5:00 p.m.. After that, notifications will be sent by December 13 regarding ticket fulfillment.
General Public: Tickets will be available to the public from December 10 at 5:00 p.m. until tickets sell out. Keep in mind, tickets are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Student Tickets: University of Arkansas students can purchase tickets in person at the Athletic Ticket Office starting December 11. Students are allowed to purchase up to two tickets per student ID.
Ticket Availability for Texas Tech Fans
Red Raider Club Members and Season Ticket Holders: Tickets can be requested until December 9, with notifications sent by December 10. Tickets are based on priority points.
Public Sale: If any tickets remain after the exclusive request period, they will be available to the general public starting December 11.
Reminder: All tickets will be digital/mobile tickets, and you will receive instructions on how to manage your tickets ahead of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where can I buy tickets for the 2024 AutoZone Liberty Bowl?
Tickets can be purchased through the official Razorback Ticket Center (for Arkansas fans) or the Texas Tech Ticket Office (for Texas Tech fans). Visit their respective websites for more details.
2. What time does the game start?
The game will kick off at 6:00 p.m. ET on December 27, 2024.
3. Is the game available to watch on TV?
Yes, the game will be broadcast live on ESPN.
4. How can I watch the game if I don’t have cable?
You can stream the game via the ESPN app or your cable provider’s digital platform.
