Texas Tech football: Takeaways from the first 2023 depth chart

Myles Price and Xavier White listed at the same position

Finally, let’s turn our attention to an interesting development at inside receiver.  At the “Y” slot receiver spot, we find both Myles Price and Xavier White with Price being named the starter.

That is important because it tells us that dynamic Austin Peay transfer Drae McCray has done enough to win the starting job at the “H” inside receiver spot.  That’s good news for an offense needing more explosiveness.

There was a distinct possibility that Price and White could have been named the starters at the two slot positions.  Each has terrific experience with the former having started 24 games and the latter having started multiple games at both slot receiver and at running back.

It is conceivable that White will still take some snaps at running back this year and his versatility will be an asset to the offense.  But it is Price who could be a true difference-maker.

Last year, a nagging back injury slowed him considerably but he still managed 51 receptions for 513 yards and two TDs.  If he can remain healthy this year, it could be a banner year for the senior from The Colony, Texas.

Price is also listed as the team’s No. 1 punt returner.  In 2022, he returned eight punts for an average of 7.9 yards.  That’s also an area where Tech needs more dynamism as the punt return game has been extremely uninspiring in recent years, especially during the Matt Wells era when that coaching staff relied on players who were safe and sure-handed but who were no threats to flip the field with a big return.

Price and McCray could give this offense a new component of explosiveness this year and that would be a godsend to OC Zach Kittley.  But also expect to see White have his hands on the ball quite a bit as he plays a variety of positions.  Hopefully, this group will help bring back the days when Texas Tech was known for fantastic play from the slot receivers.