Texas Tech's 'Six' comes in at No. 6 on ESPN's top 25 of the 2000s

A general view of Texas Tech Red Raiders helmets. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images
A general view of Texas Tech Red Raiders helmets. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images | Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images

College football is known for its excitement - the energy of the crowd, the traditions, and the intense rivalries. Every so often, a play occurs that transcends the game itself and becomes a moment etched in history. ESPN recently asked its college football writers to vote on the top 25 plays in the last 25 years, and one moment from a Texas Tech game landed at No. 6 — a play simply known as "Six".

"Six" was a signature play of the "Air Raid" offense, a system built on spreading the field and attacking deep. Designed by Coach Hal Mumme, it is built on throwing the ball frequently and getting it into the hands of a playmaker. Mike Leach, a student of Mumme's, perfected the Air Raid at Texas Tech and transformed the Red Raiders into a powerhouse offense. The stage was set in Lubbock when the No. 1 ranked Texas Longhorns came to town.

With just :08 remaining and down 33-32, Texas Tech QB Graham Harrell threw a dime to WR Michael Crabtree who made the catch at the 6-yard line. Instead of stepping out of bounds to stop the clock, Crabtree broke a tackle, crossed the goalline, and scored the winning touchdown. This didn't just secure a huge win for Tech, but also crushed Texas's dreams of a national championship and secured its place as one of the most iconic moments in college football history.

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Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images | Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

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David Lewis
DAVID LEWIS

Dave Lewis served in the United States Army for 25 years. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and is completing his MBA in Executive Leadership. He’s been married to his wife, Andrea, for 20+ years and is a proud father of Carsen and Madisen.