Will Hammond endured injury and offseason intrigue to lead Texas Tech to a 33-10 season-opening victory over Abilene Christian. Hammond, a junior quarterback, won the starting role after Brendan Sorsby departed the program following a gambling scandal. Hammond recovered from a torn ACL sustained last October and guided the Red Raiders to victory in his fourth career start.

The game took place at Galaxy Stadium in front of 60,229 fans. Hammond completed 26 of 33 passes for 298 yards and one touchdown. Coach Joey McGuire praised Hammond's emotional control amid his rehabilitation journey.

Hammond wore a knee brace but stated it was not limiting. He rushed twice for 11 yards and acknowledged he could have run for a first down on his interception. The offense struggled in the red zone, settling for three field goals despite open opportunities.

Hammond vowed to improve decision-making in critical situations.