The Texas Tech Red Raiders (6-6) are set to face off against the California Golden Bears (6-6) in a battle for supremacy at the Independence Bowl. With both teams looking to cap their seasons with a victory, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter. Let’s run through our Independence Bowl predictions and Cal vs. Texas Tech picks below.
California vs. Texas Tech Odds Info
- Moneyline: California +125 (PointsBet) / Texas Tech -142 (FanDuel)
- Spread: Texas Tech -3 (BetRivers)
- Total: 57.5 / Over -105 (BetMGM) / Under -115 (BetMGM)
Game Info
- Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
- Time: 09:15 PM ET
- Location: Independence Stadium – Shreveport, LA
- TV: ESPN
California Golden Bears Betting Trends
- On the road, California Golden Bears are 3 and 3 this season.
- Against the spread this season, California Golden Bears are 6 and 6.
- Against the spread on the road, California Golden Bears are 3 and 3.
Texas Tech Red Raiders Betting Trends
- At home, Texas Tech Red Raiders are 4 and 2 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Texas Tech Red Raiders are 5 and 7.
- Against the spread at home, Texas Tech Red Raiders are 3 and 3.
Independence Bowl Predictions
The Independence Bowl presents an intriguing matchup as the Texas Tech Red Raiders and the California Golden Bears, both with equal 6-6 records, look to end their seasons on a high note. Texas Tech, coming off a win, aims to leverage their momentum against a Cal team that has lost its last three games. The Red Raiders’ offense has been a mixed bag this season, but they’ve shown the ability to put up points, matching their points against exactly at 322. Cal, on the other hand, has struggled defensively, allowing a substantial 392 points against over the season.
Key players to watch include Texas Tech’s standout running back Tahj Brooks, who has decided to return for the 2024 season, and Cal’s Jaydn Ott, a first-team All-Pac-12 selection with impressive rushing yards. Brooks’ performance on the ground could be a deciding factor, especially against Cal’s defense that has been generous to opposing offenses. The quarterback play will also be critical, with Texas Tech’s starter yet to be confirmed and Cal’s quarterback situation in flux after Sam Jackson V entered the transfer portal.
Defensively, both teams have had their struggles, but Texas Tech’s ability to generate turnovers could play a pivotal role in this game. The Red Raiders will need to contain Cal’s offense, which has shown it can put up points, scoring 379 over the season. With the over/under line set at 57.5, this game could turn into a high-scoring affair if both offenses click. As the teams prepare to take the field at Independence Stadium, all eyes will be on which team can assert their game plan and take control of the game to secure the bowl victory.
California vs. Texas Tech Picks
The Texas Tech Red Raiders have shown a level of resilience at home this season, boasting a 4-2 record that suggests a strong advantage at Independence Stadium. Despite a less than stellar against the spread (ATS) record of 5-7, the Red Raiders have managed to maintain an even 3-3 ATS record at home. With the spread set at -3, Texas Tech’s offense, led by the dynamic Tahj Brooks, is well-positioned to cover the spread against a California defense that has been susceptible throughout the season, allowing an average of more than 32 points per game. Additionally, Texas Tech’s defense has demonstrated the ability to create turnovers, which could be crucial in a game that’s likely to feature plenty of offensive action from both sides.
California, while matching Texas Tech with a 6-6 overall record, has faltered down the stretch with a three-game losing streak. Their ATS record mirrors their overall performance, standing at 6-6, and they have been inconsistent on the road with a 3-3 ATS record away from home. Given the recent trends and the fact that Texas Tech is playing in familiar territory with the crowd likely in their favor, the Red Raiders are the more compelling pick to cover the spread. The momentum from their last win and the emotional boost from Brooks’ decision to return next season should give Texas Tech the edge they need to secure a victory and cover the spread in the Independence Bowl.
The Pick: Texas Tech Red Raiders -3 (BetRivers)