Why it is ok to buy into Texas Tech football hype again before the 2024 season

Though Texas Tech football fans might be hesitant to buy into any hype surrounding the Red Raiders this offseason, here's why it is ok to have optimism heading into 2024.

Nov 2, 2023; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders running back Tahj Brooks (28) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Texas Christian Horned Frogs in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium and Cody Campbell Field. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports / Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

2 of 5

Tahj Brooks gives Texas Tech an identity

Since perhaps the last year of Mahomes' time in Lubbock, this program has lacked an identity. There hasn't been anything the Red Raiders have done at an elite level, something that the team can lean on when the situation hits crunch time.

Last year, Tech found that in Tahj Brooks. The Red Raiders figured that out too late in 2023 not relying on Brooks enough until the injuries to Shough and Morton forced them to.

That won't be a problem this season. After Brooks rushed for over 1,500 yards last season, Tech knows exactly who its best offensive player is. Thus, there won't be any reason for O.C. Zach Kittley to have to figure out how to use Brooks in the scope of his offense.

Remember, Kittley is still young as an offensive coordinator. He's called plays for only six seasons at the college level.

Last season, Kittley grew up as a playcaller. When his go-to, the passing game, was all but taken away from him because of QB injuries, he had to figure out how to adapt on the fly and rely on his best player, Brooks.

Had Tech leaned more heavily on Brooks early in the season last fall, the Red Raiders likely would have beaten Wyoming and Oregon and who knows how 2023 would have been different? This year, Brooks will be the man right out of the gate and that will make a huge difference in how the season unfolds.

Home/Texas Tech Football