Texas Tech football: Red Raiders we should be taking more about

Xavier White could be an important weapon on offense

With the departure of SaRodorick Thompson, there is a sizeable hole to fill in the Texas Tech running back rotation.  But while many people are excited about what sophomore Cam’Ron Valez could give the team in his first opportunity to be a regular contributor in tandem with returning pseudo-starter Tahj Brooks, we might be overlooking a player who could be just as important, Xavier White.

Coming to Tech as a JUCO walk-on, the Lubbock native began his Red Raider career as a receiver before moving to running back.  But last year, he was brought back to the receiving corps where he hauled in 45 passes for 572 and three touchdowns.

Now, though, it appears that he’s slated to be a jack of all trades for Tech in his final college season.  That’s because the inside receiver position is more solidified with a healthy Myles Price set to team with McRae and Tech’s two massive tight ends, Baylor Cupp and Mason Tharpe to give offensive coordinator Zach Kittley plenty of firepower in the slot.

Thus, many believe that White will get plenty of snaps as a running back where his versatility could be a huge weapon.  With Tech wanting to play as fast as possible on offense, substituting players is one way that the offense can be bogged down a bit.  So White’s ability to go from running back to receiver and back on any given series might be a huge asset in those moments when Kittley has a defense on its heels and wants to keep the pressure on.

White is a player who was not a high-profile recruit and who has never starred at any position.  But the hometown kid has proven he can be effective as both a running back and as a receiver and at times, he’s proven to be explosive, which is something this offense needs more of in 2023.  So don’t overlook what White could bring to the table this year because he’s got the skill set to be a sneaky-good weapon for Kittley.