Texas Tech football: Important position battles to watch this spring
Red Raiders looking for a new center
One of the most underrated players on the 2018 team was senior center Paul Stawarz. Now, someone must step up to become his replacement as the QB of the offensive line.
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Last year, when Stawarz missed two games due to injury, Bailey Smith was the man who took his place. The 6-foot-5, 305-pounder performed adequately and likely enters his final spring as a Red Raider as the first-team center. But his hold on the job is certainly tenuous.
Another option could be sophomore Dawson Deaton. The product of Frisco, Texas is one of the most versatile players on the offensive line and could be a swing-player this year because he can play all five OL positions. But he might also be the best option at center.
Outside of those two players, there aren’t any great options on the roster. Again, one must wonder if Wells looks to find a JUCO offensive lineman to compete for that job this summer.
That plan has worked out well for Texas Tech in recent seasons. Stawarz spent a season atCollege of DuPage before joining the Red Raiders.
Another option could be the graduate transfer portal. Tech had success in 2015 when Emeka Okafor transferred in from Houston and became the starting right tackle helping to protect Patrick Mahomes.
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Last year, the offensive line play was disappointing, especially in regards to run blocking. One key to solving that problem is to find a player that can take over at center, where he will have to make all of the reads and calls up front. Though offensive line battles are not particularly sexy, they are critical for any team and this spring, the battle at center will be huge for Matt Wells’ team.