Texas Tech football traditions that bring Lubbock, Galaxy Stadium to life

Every college football program has its rituals, and the Big 12 Conference’s traditions reflect the individuality and passion that make fall Saturdays special.

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At Texas Tech, the traditions that define home games at Galaxy Stadium speak to the university’s rich history, school spirit and a distinct game-day experience.

Those traditions include:

• The Masked Rider, who leads the Red Raiders onto the field on horseback, a tradition that has become one of college football’s most recognizable entrances.
• Fans showing their pride through the Guns Up hand sign, mimicking pistols with an extended index finger and raised thumb.
• The Goin’ Band from Raiderland, which was established in 1925, is the oldest student organization on campus and features over 400 members wearing matador uniforms.

And while the tortilla toss kickoff custom no longer is a part of game day, it remains one of the most memorable and unconventional traditions in the sport.

Together, those traditions create an atmosphere that shows the heart of Texas Tech football, making Saturdays in Lubbock a celebration of Red Raiders pride.

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Mike Garbett is a content specialist working with McClatchy’s Content Innovation Lab.

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This story was originally published October 5, 2026 at 9:41 AM.