Texas Tech Football: 50 Greatest Red Raiders of all time

Oct 6, 2012; Lubbock, TX, USA; A Texas Tech Red Raiders cheerleader entertains the crowd during the game against the Oklahoma Sooners. Oklahoma defeated Texas Tech 41-20. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

No. 41 Ted Watts (Safety 1978 – 1980)

Ted Watts was a standout safety earning all-Southwest Conference honors in 1979. Watt’s had four career interceptions in an era and conference that was obsessed with running the football.

The three-year starter was also a noteworthy kick returner at Tech averaging 8.5-yards per punt return and 17.7-yards per kickoff return.

Watts played seven seasons in the NFL with the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders, New York Giants, and San Diego Chargers. Watts earned a Super Bowl ring with the 1984 Los Angeles Raiders who defeated the Washington Redskins 38-9 in Super Bowl XVIII in Tampa Bay, Florida, making him one of only 15 Red Raider alums to win a NFL championship.

Next: Kerry Hyder