Texas Tech University has named Will Hammond as its starting quarterback for the 2026 college football season, positioning the sophomore to inherit the mantle left by Behren Morton.
A New Era for the Red Raiders
Hammond, who has spent the past two years on the Red Raiders roster, will take over after Morton guided the team to a 12‑2 record and a Big 12 championship in 2025.
Although his collegiate résumé remains modest, Hammond’s statistical trajectory shows steady growth, having thrown for 471 yards and two touchdowns in 2024 before posting 680 yards and seven scores a year later.
His ascent comes despite limited snaps in the previous seasons, a circumstance that has only heightened anticipation among coaches and fans alike.
The Red Raiders open the new campaign on September 5 against the Abilene Christian Wildcats, a home game that will be broadcast at 7 p.m. ET on FS1.
All three of the team’s first contests are slated for prime‑time slots, underscoring the network’s confidence in the program’s marketability.
The schedule also includes a later matchup in Houston, where the Red Raiders will travel to face a yet‑to‑be‑determined opponent, adding another layer of intrigue to the season.
Prime‑Time Kickoff
The opening night game against Abilene Christian will mark the first live broadcast of the Hammond era, a moment that will be closely watched by analysts eager to assess the quarterback’s readiness.
FS1’s prime‑time slot, combined with a 7 p.m. kickoff, is designed to maximize viewership and set a high‑energy tone for the weeks that follow.
The Red Raiders’ subsequent prime‑time fixtures are expected to draw comparable audiences, reinforcing the program’s upward trajectory.
Looking Ahead
With a 12‑2 record and a Big 12 title already secured, the team enters the 2026 season as a contender for a College Football Playoff berth, though the road ahead will be tested by formidable opponents.
Coaches have emphasized that Hammond’s development will be pivotal, noting that the quarterback’s ability to manage the offense and limit turnovers will directly influence the team’s championship aspirations.
As the season unfolds, the Red Raiders will navigate challenges ranging from conference rivals to non‑conference powerhouses, all while maintaining the momentum generated by their recent successes.