While much of what we’ve talked about regarding Texas Tech’s lopsided road win over the Utah Utes has centered around the way the offense has played (there are so many storylines for what the Red Raiders did on that side of the ball that we can’t not talk about it), we absolutely have to talk about the way the defense played.
Especially with the way that Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez played for the Red Raiders on Saturday. He was the focal point of much of what the broadcast talked about and highlighted with Texas Tech’s defense and he also showcased just how much he means to this team as he helped elevate the defense in this win.
Without Rodriguez and the stellar play from the defense, this game would have been far more concerning through much of it. After an early scoring drive, Texas Tech’s offense stalled through much of the first three quarters and didn’t really find life until the fourth quarter.
It was Rodriguez and the defense that limited Utah and helped this game be winnable for the Red Raiders.
Jacob Rodriguez earns Bronko Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week recognition after Texas Tech’s win over Utah
Rodriguez was phenomenal in this game as he picked off a pass from Utah quarterback Devon Dampier and also was involved in a team-high 11 tackles against the Utes. He really helped the Red Raiders make a statement on the road in Salt Lake City this past Saturday.
Oh, and it’s absolutely worth noting that Rodriguez was involved in forcing a fumble.
Time and time again in Rice-Eccles Stadium, Rodriguez made his presence known for Texas Tech’s defense. It’s so great seeing him get the recognition that he earned.
The success that is being had by Texas Tech’s defense is arguably a far bigger story than what we’re seeing from the Red Raiders on offense (even though the offense is one of the best in the country). Texas Tech football isn’t known for having a strong defense historically.
And so, what Rodriguez is a part of is monumental for this program. The work that he’s doing is helping to redefine what is possible for Texas Tech and it’s reshaping the way that people perceive this program.