Texas Tech Football: 50 Greatest Red Raiders of all time
September 16, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Baron Batch (20) stretches on the field prior to playing the New York Jets at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
No. 49 Barron Batch (RB 2006 – 2010)
The next player on our list of the 50 greatest Texas Tech football players is an inspiration in overcoming adversity. Perhaps no player in Tech history has shown more perseverance and fortitude than Barron Batch.
Growing up in abject poverty, Batch lost his mother in 2003 when he was only 16 years old.After enrolling at Tech, Batch suffered a broken ankle during his freshman season and developed a career threatening infection after his surgery.
After a year of difficult physical rehab, Batch made his way back onto the field and became the heart and soul of the team. He finished his career as the No. 8 all-time leading rusher in school history with 2,501 yards. Furthermore, his 14 rushing touchdowns in 2009 rank 6th in Tech single season history.
Batch was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers but saw his career end due to a knee injury. But putting stats aside, what Batch brought to the team in terms of leadership and heart can’t be measured but it was noticed and appreciated by Red Raider fans.
Next: Robert Hall