Texas Tech enters 2026 with Big 12 title expectations, a new quarterback, a rebuilt defense and zero patience for another quick playoff exit.
Texas Tech football isn’t hunting respect anymore. The Red Raiders have it—and now comes the uncomfortable part.
After going 12-2, winning the Big 12 championship and reaching the College Football Playoff in 2025, Joey McGuire’s program enters the 2026 season facing a much harsher standard.
Another strong year won’t automatically feel successful. Texas Tech must prove last season wasn’t a one-year portal-powered explosion that ended the moment Oregon delivered a 23-0 postseason beating.
The pressure starts with sophomore quarterback Will Hammond.
Behren Morton is gone, and the planned arrival of high-profile transfer Brendan Sorsby fell apart.
That leaves Hammond in charge of an offense that averaged 39 points and 461 yards per game last season.
He showed promise when injuries forced him onto the field, but Texas Tech now needs more than safe decisions and occasional flashes. Hammond must become a difference-maker.
Fortunately, he won’t be working alone.
Running back Cameron Dickey returns after rushing for 1,124 yards and 14 touchdowns, while J’Koby Williams added 868 rushing yards, six scores and 35 receptions.
Coy Eakin gives Hammond a proven slot target, and transfers Kenny Johnson, Donte Lee, Malcolm Simmons and Jalen Jones should add serious explosiveness outside.
The offensive line could become the team’s backbone. Howard Sampson returns at tackle, and Louisville transfer Jordan Church strengthens a group that must protect Hammond better after allowing 1.93 sacks per game last season.
Defense presents the bigger mystery.
Texas Tech led the nation in rushing defense, surrendering only 68 yards per game and 2.2 yards per carry.
But stars David Bailey and Jacob Rodriguez leave enormous holes. Bailey recorded 14.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss, while Rodriguez piled up 128 tackles, four interceptions and seven forced fumbles.
McGuire attacked those losses aggressively. San Diego State transfer Trey White arrives with 19.5 sacks and 29 tackles for loss over the past two seasons.
Austin Romaine brings 162 tackles from Kansas State, while Bryce Butler and Mateen Ibirogba add size inside.
The schedule offers no excuses. Arizona, Arizona State, Houston and TCU all visit Galaxy Stadium, while Texas Tech avoids BYU, Kansas State and Utah. College Football News projects an 11-1 finish.
Texas Tech has the roster, money and path to return to the playoff. This time, merely arriving won’t be enough.
