TCU Football: 3 takeaways from blowout win over Texas Tech in Week 12

2. TCU is still defined by the strength of its defense

While Shawn Robinson had a solid enough performance in his first-ever start, the true star of the game for TCU was its defense. That is by design, as Gary Patterson’s teams have historically been stingy against opposing offenses. Over their long history as a BCS Buster and now in the Big 12, the Horned Frogs have long been a defensive juggernaut.

That seemed to change some when Andy Dalton and Trevone Boykin were leading the offense to huge numbers through the air and on the ground. But at the heart of TCU’s success remained its ferocity without the football.

In a game that probably sealed a spot in the Big 12 championship game for the Horned Frogs, defense was critical. Against an opponent that averaged 343 passing yards coming into the game, TCU’s secondary gave up less than half as many yards through the air. Nic Shimonek went just 17-of-33 for 137 yards, with no touchdowns but one interception.

Now Texas Tech must beat Texas in their showdown on Black Friday in Austin to reach bowl eligibility. Kliff Kingsbury could quickly find himself on the hot seat at his alma mater unless the Red Raiders manage to take down the Longhorns and reach the postseason.