Texas Tech football: Red Raiders that must step up vs. Cyclones

T.J. Vasher

Tech also needs more from T.J. Vasher than he put forth against Kansas State.  Keeping in mind that the KSU pass defense was the second-worst in the Big 12 heading into last week, Tech certainly expected more than two receptions for ten yards from the talented but enigmatic senior.

So far, his 4.6 catches per game are right on target with what he’s averaged for his career.  Extrapolate that out over a 12-game season and that would be 56 catches, which would be just two more than his career-best, which he amassed in 2018.

But where Vasher is trailing his previous years’ productivity is in yards per catch.  At just 11.6 this year, he’s on pace for a career-low.

Facing Iowa State, Vasher has to give Tech more than he has thus far.  The Red Raiders simply aren’t going to win this game if the outside receivers are not able to stretch the defense and that’s where Vasher could be a weapon given his ability to make contested catches downfield.

He also needs to be a factor on red-zone possessions.  That’s because settling for three points too often today will lead to certain demise.

So far, Vasher has played Iowa State twice in his career.  In each game, he’s had five receptions and he’s never had more than 66 yards.  He needs to be more productive today.

Thus, keep an eye on Vasher as this afternoon unfolds.  If he is able to make a significant impact, it will go a long way towards helping his team’s upset hopes.