The Top 50 Greatest Texas Tech Red Raiders of All-Time: No. 34 – 30
No. 33 Ecomet Burley (DT 1972 – 1975):
Nov 16, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders mascot Masked Rider on the field before the game against the Baylor Bears at AT&T Stadium. Baylor beat Texas Tech 63-34. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Despite being only 5’10” and 240-pounds, Burley was one of the best defensive tackles to dawn the scarlet and black. The native of Lufkin, TX was an All-Southwest Conference selection in 1973, 1974 and 1975. He was also named a second team All-American in 1974.
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Burley was originally recruited to play on the offensive line, but blossomed into a star when he was moved to defensive tackle. In 1972, he was awarded the Jimmy Rogers Jr. Most Valuable Lineman Trophy for his performance in the Sun Bowl despite his team’s 32 – 28 loss to North Carolina.
Burley was inducted into the Texas Tech Hall of Honor in 2004. After his time in Lubbock, Burley played in the Canadian Football League for six seasons. Once his playing career ended, Burley went into the educational field becoming the Super Intendant of the La Marque Independent School District.