Texas Tech Rose to Number 10 in AP Poll
The Red Raiders advanced in the rankings following LSU's overtime loss to Kentucky.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football
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Texas Tech has moved up to the number 10 spot in the latest AP college football poll. The team climbed in the rankings after LSU suffered a 35-34 overtime defeat against Kentucky.
Why it matters
The shift in rankings reflects the volatility of the college football season as undefeated teams and conference leaders jockey for position. With a 5-0 record, Texas Tech continues to strengthen its standing in both the Big 12 and the national conversation.
Texas Tech currently holds a 5-0 overall record and a 2-0 record in Big 12 play. The program also remains at number 9 in the latest US LBM Coaches Poll.
The players
Texas Tech University
This public research university based in Lubbock participates in the Big 12 Conference.
LSU
Louisiana State University is a major collegiate football program that dropped in the rankings this week.
Georgia
The University of Georgia football team reached the number 1 ranking in the AP poll.
Alabama
The University of Alabama remains at number 6 in the AP poll following a loss to Georgia.
The details
Texas Tech benefited from LSU's loss to Kentucky in a closely contested 35-34 overtime game. Elsewhere in the rankings, Georgia ascended to the number 1 spot after defeating Alabama 20-17.
Timeline
The weekly AP college football poll was released on October 11, 2026.
The first official College Football Rankings will be released on November 3, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Texas Tech's advancement keeps the program in contention as the season approaches the release of the inaugural College Football Rankings. The reshuffling highlights the impact of early-season losses on major programs like LSU and Alabama.
Texas Tech's rise to the top 10 positions the team more favorably for high-profile postseason considerations. The team will look to maintain its 2-0 conference record as it prepares for upcoming matchups.
The takeaway
Maintaining a strong conference record remains the most important factor for Texas Tech as the season reaches its midway point. Fans and observers should keep an eye on the upcoming official rankings release to gauge the team's postseason potential.
What happens next
The first College Football Rankings will be released on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Lubbock Football section.
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Do you believe the current college football rankings accurately reflect the strength of your local team?
