Texas Tech vs California in the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl

'Downtown Shreveport, LA' Photo Credit: Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau via Flickr

An early bowl-season game between two power five opponents. Texas Tech (6-6, 5-4) had a disappointing season with many folks seeing this team as a real threat for the Big 12 title. California (6-6, 4-5) improved upon their 2022 season to make a bowl this season. Both teams come into this game to build towards next season and to finish this season above .500.

where to Watch

• Channel- ESPN

• Date- December 16, 2023

• Time- 9:15 EST/8:15 CST

• Broadcasters- Kevin Connors and Rocky Boiman

Transfer Portal Impacts

California has lost both of their backup quarterbacks, Ben Finley and Sam Jackson. Kaleb Elarms-Orr the leading tackler for California has also entered the transfer portal. Texas Tech has lost two of the top three pass catchers on the season Jerand Bradley and Myles Price.

Impact Players

Tahj Brooks Runningback - Number four in America in rushing yards at 1443 yards and 9 touchdowns. He is a load to bring down and does not shy away from contact. The California front seven will have their hands full, especially without the leading tackler still on the team.

Ben Roberts Linebacker - Totaling 100 tackles on the season as a freshman. He will have to have quite a few more in this game against a decent running back on the other side of the ball Jaydn Ott.

Fernando Mendoza Quarterback - The freshman quarterback for California comes into this game with 1447 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. California will need some balance in the offense against Texas Tech who has played good defense at times this season. Limit the turnovers and make the big passes and he will have California in position to win this game.

Cade Uluave Linebacker - Comes into post-season play with 59 tackles and earning the Pac 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year Award. This freshman will need to get his guys up front ready to stop Tahj Brooks. With the leading tackler leaving he will be put into a leadership role and will be able to prepare for the role next season.

Prediction - Independence Bowl

Give me Tahj Brooks and the Texas Tech Red Raiders in this one 38-31. California will keep this game close but with California losing the quarterback room and their defensive leader they will struggle to slow down the Texas Tech offense In this year's Independence Bowl.