Texas Tech football: Red Raiders in good shape with recruiting class

LUBBOCK, TEXAS – DECEMBER 05: Running back SaRodorick Thompson #4 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders interacts with fans after the college football game against the Kansas Jayhawks at Jones AT&T Stadium on December 05, 2020 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)

Why the Optimism?

Plenty of fans have lost all faith in Wells and AD Kirby Hocutt, and I can understand it. These have been two difficult seasons for the Red Raider faithful. An 8-14 record is unacceptable, and it’s been compounded by a few terrible in-game decisions on Wells’ part and the complete collapse of the offense under now-former offensive coordinator David Yost.

The good news is the offense is bound to get better. Wells hasn’t yet named Yost’s replacement, and he may not officially do so for another couple of weeks. But given that Morton signed his Letter of Intent just days after saying he was going to take some time to think about things, it sounds like Wells has a good idea of the direction he’s going, and Morton seems to like it.

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Wells said he’s looking for an “explosive down-the-field passing game” more in line with Texas Tech’s history over the past two decades. Bringing in the right coordinator (SMU’s Garrett Riley would be my first choice) could jump-start this offense, especially if someone as talented as Morton is taking snaps.

The defense made big strides in 2020 and many of its key players are returning. I would expect Wells to add some more depth via the JUCO and transfer routes, especially at linebacker and defensive back. But there’s already a strong unit in place, and it’ll be helped even more if the offense does a better job of sustaining drives and keeping possession of the football.

So call me crazy, but I’m optimistic. Further improvement from the defense and a rejuvenated offense could make Texas Tech a sneaky good team in 2021. I’m not saying a Big 12 title is in the cards just yet, but eight wins is certainly within the realm of possibility. That’s not the end goal, of course, but it’s a big step in the right direction.

And unlike some fans, I like Wells. That doesn’t mean I like every decision he’s made, but I like him and I genuinely want him to succeed, as should all Texas Tech fans. It’ll be a put up or shut up year for him in 2021, though, but if he brings in the right offensive coordinator, he’ll have the pieces in place to make a nice jump forward.