TEXAS TECH vs OKLAHOMA STATE BREAKDOWN
This Breakdown was completed by Russ Morris and Ethan Nieporte.
Texas Tech returns home after a disappointing showing against the Sooners, while the Cowboys travel to the South Plains after taking care of the previous ranked Kansas State Wildcats (38-24). The Cowboys lead the all-time series against the Red Raiders and look to continue their winning streak at Lubbock. Texas Tech has not beaten OSU in Lubbock since 2008 with a final of (59-14). Both teams enter the week with the potential of a high scoring game based on the series history. Texas Tech has had a chance of beating the OSU the past few seasons in Lubbock with the closest being in 2017, but the “Pokes” wound up winning 31-24 in a surprising defensive battle. The Red Raiders are due for a win at home against the Cowboys, but how will Tech respond after last week?
Oklahoma State Cowboys (4-1) Big 12 (1-1)
Oklahoma State comes to Lubbock with perhaps the best offense they have had in a while. This is the one team that could potentially hang with Oklahoma, besides Texas. Mike Gundy has a new offensive coordinator and the offense looks a lot better. They have the Big 12’s version of a “three headed monster”. QB Spencer Sanders, RB, Chuba Hubbard, and WR Tylan Wallace are the “big 3” on the OSU offense. Chuba Hubbard leads the nation in rushing averaging 135 yds per game, while Tylan Wallace is the 2nd leading receiver in the Big 12 behind Cede Lamb. Spencer Wallace is not afraid to sling the ball down the field. He has a Patrick Mahomes type of cannon but is not accurate on the run. He threw for over 250 yds against the Longhorns to open league play, but they struggled at times in the red zone. Their defense is headlined by Amen Ogbongbemiga. He is their starting linebacker and is and will fly to the ball. How the Red Raiders handle him and control their offense are the biggest keys to victory this week.
Texas Tech Red Raiders (2-2) Big 12 (0-1)
For the first time since the early 1980s, the Red Raiders were held to under 150 yds passing but were able to rush the ball for over 200 yds thanks to an impressive game plan by OU DC Alex Grinch. QB Jett Duffy will start the games the rest of the season, until Bowman is healthy. With a full week to practice with the starter’s, it will be interesting to see what Duffy looks like with the full play book. The offensive line must improve as a unit or success will be minimal. The backend of the defense better be prepared for another high-powered offensive attack this week. Look for tight man-man coverage and some spies from Jordyn Brooks in order to contain the offensive attack. Yost should have some fun with Duffy. There will be opportunities to make plays with his legs, which is key to some of his success. If he has time to throw the ball, he has the potential to make some big plays. Time and a chance is all he needs based on his game film from last year and high school.
This should be an exciting game on Saturday. Tech is due for a win against the Cowboys at home, but how they respond will factor into what happens. Our chances on Saturday are really good.
On another note, to the people calling for a new coach already, stop it. Coach Matt Wells and his staff have already made some major improvements to this squad in the short time they’ve had here in Lubbock. Just looking at the guys now, compared to last year is almost unbelievable. They are toned, fit, and ready to kick some tail this season. Oklahoma is a good team. #6 in the Nation in fact. Calling for a new coach at this point is ridiculous. Give the man time to work and I promise you’ll see the results we are all craving for.
In Saddle Tramp News:
We are hosting Bell Tower Tours tonight! So come to the Bell Tower from 7-9pm and see where History is celebrated!