Texas Tech football: What we need to see over the final two games

Better play along the offensive line

Aside from the QB position, the play along the offensive line has been this year’s biggest disappointment.  In fact, over the last three games, the Red Raiders have given up a total of nine sacks.  Thus, that position group still has plenty it can prove in the final two games of the year.

Keep an eye specifically on true freshman Caleb Rogers, who has a golden opportunity to cement a starting job for next season after making his first start as a Red Raider against Baylor.  If he can lock down the left tackle spot, next year’s offensive line outlook will be rather bright given that Tech could return all five of this year’s starters.

Remember that Jack Anderson redshirted last year after playing in only three games.  Thus, he technically has two years of eligibility remaining since 2020 does not count towards a player’s eligibility.

Still, it seems likely that he could head to the NFL after this season.  But there is always a chance that he might not hear what he wants to through the NFL back channels and that could bring him back for one more season.

But even if Anderson departs, Tech could bring back four starters along the o-line.  Still, given the way that group has played this year, that might not mean that next year’s line is going to be dominant.

Therefore, don’t be surprised if the Red Raiders once again turn to the transfer portal or the JUCO ranks for help at tackle as starting right tackle Josh Burger and seven-game starter at left tackle Ethan Carde have been less than solid.

That brings us back to Rogers.  A 3-star signee in the class of 2020, the Mansfield, TX native has impressed as a true freshman and he looks to be in line for significant playing time over the final two games of the year.  If he can play well, it could elevate the overall play of the o-line and that would be a huge positive for the future of the program.