Texas Tech football didn’t get the offensive explosion it might’ve expected Saturday night, but the No. 12 Red Raiders didn’t need one. The defense, led by Brice Pollock, took over, forcing four interceptions and turning a shaky start into a convincing 29-7 win over Colorado at Folsom Field.

The victory pushed Texas Tech to 5-0 overall and 2-0 in Big 12 play, while Colorado fell to 2-3 and 0-2.

Colorado struck first behind new starting quarterback Isaac Wilson, who connected with Joseph Williams for an eight-yard touchdown on the Buffaloes’ opening possession.

Then Texas Tech slammed the door.

The Red Raiders scored the game’s final 29 points, with the defense repeatedly giving the offense favorable opportunities. Colorado committed four interceptions, including three by Wilson and another on a failed trick play when Williams attempted a pass. Texas Tech converted those turnovers into 19 points.

Brice Pollock intercepted two passes, while linebacker John Curry delivered the knockout blow in the fourth quarter. Curry jumped a short Wilson pass near the goal line and returned it for a touchdown, turning a defensive struggle into a comfortable Texas Tech victory.

Quarterback Will Hammond wasn’t asked to carry the Red Raiders. He threw for 134 yards and one touchdown, with his biggest play coming late in the third quarter when he connected with tight end Terrance Carter Jr. for an 11-yard touchdown that put Texas Tech ahead 12-7.

That score finally gave Texas Tech some breathing room after Colorado surprisingly carried a 7-3 advantage into halftime.

The Buffaloes repeatedly sabotaged themselves. In addition to the four interceptions, Colorado missed two field goals, failed on a fake punt and committed eight penalties for 84 yards.

For Texas Tech, it wasn’t a highlight-reel offensive performance. It was something potentially more important: proof the Red Raiders can win when the offense isn’t clicking.

The victory also gave Joey McGuire his 40th win at Texas Tech, making him the first Red Raiders coach to reach 40 victories within his first 58 games. The Red Raiders now enter their open week before returning home to face Arizona State on October 17.

Texas Tech remains unbeaten, and this time the defense made sure of it.