Texas Tech’s Transformation: From Matadors to Red Raiders

There’s been a lot of buzz lately about rebranding. Right now, Cracker Barrel is catching heat for changing things up, but it wasn’t always so controversial. Sometimes, a shift in identity feels natural — even inevitable.

I was browsing for some new game day clothes this year when I stopped by “The Matador” website. There I spotted a retro Texas Tech tee that looked beyond cool. That sparked a question: When exactly did Texas Tech switch from being called The Matadors to The Red Raiders?

The Story Behind Texas Tech’s Name Change

A little digging gave me the answer. Texas Tech’s teams were known as The Matadors from 1926 until 1936. Then came a big moment. Following a huge win, a sportswriter — sources vary whether from Lubbock or Los Angeles — used the phrase “Red Raiders” to describe the squad. The name resonated, spread quickly, and was officially adopted.

The original “Matadors” nickname was chosen as a nod to the Spanish Renaissance architecture on campus, which was one of the school’s defining features. The imagery tied the team to its environment in a way that made sense for the time.

Over the decades, the Red Raiders have become more than just a name — they’ve grown into a full culture with mascots and traditions. Fans now rally behind The Masked Rider, Raider Red, and unique West Texas staples like tires, pumpjacks, and cactus motifs.

Read More: Texas Tech Red Raiders Face High Expectations This Preseason

Honoring 100 Years of Texas Tech Football

As Texas Tech Football celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, don’t be surprised to see throwback references to “The Matadors.” Far from being disrespectful, it’s a respectful tip of the cap to the university’s roots. Honoring both names reminds us of the journey: from paying homage to the architecture of a young campus to creating one of the most iconic identities in college sports.

What began as The Matadors in 1926 has evolved into the powerhouse tradition we know today — The Red Raiders, a name that carries pride, history, and a century of grit.