Texas Tech QB Donovan Smith Honored by Big 12 After Clutch Week 2 Performance

Smith started the potential game-tying drive with a quick 27-yard gain with his legs. After that, two big first-down completions to the sideline. The ensuing 47-yard field goal by Trey Wolff punctuated Smith's composure-filled drive, which he continued into overtime where Tech and Houston traded possessions with 25 yards of field.

The overtime period brought a newfound sense of confidence in the air at Jones AT&T Stadium that wasn't present once Houston took the late lead in the fourth.

But Smith seemingly rose from the purgatory that his fourth-quarter mistakes had caused. Once he was ignited with new life, it was too late for Houston. 

We know this: Smith's toughest test takes place next week. His future at QB1 could all depend on how a road meeting with the No. 16 N.C. State Wolfpack will go on Sept. 17 followed by the visit from the Longhorns.

The Wolfpack remain a ranked ACC dark horse while the Longhorns took No. 1 Alabama to the brink Saturday in a 20-19 loss.

These two road games will show what the Red Raiders are all about, though eyes are certain to be locked onto Smith's in what is going to be two prove-it games.