All eyes on new HC Joey McGuire

The excitement around Joey McGuire’s first season in Lubbock is growing by the day.

Texas Tech gained national attention when they fired former head coach Matt Wells halfway through last season, but the hiring of McGuire has been overwhelmingly labeled a success. Although this will be McGuire’s first season in any major college coaching role, his immediate success on the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal is cause for confidence.

Texas Tech has a heavy non-conference schedule, facing two top-25 caliber teams in Houston and NC State. This doesn’t give the Red Raiders much time to make a decision at quarterback — where Donovan Smith, Tyler Shough and Behren Morton all have a case to be named starter. The Red Raiders open Big 12 play in Lubbock against the rival Texas Longhorns on Sept. 24.

There are plenty of questions and unknowns around this year’s Texas Tech football team. But while certain things may still be in progress, there is plenty of reason for excitement around the 2022 Red Raiders.

Texas Tech fact book

Head coach: Joey McGuire (first season as Texas Tech head coach, 0-0 career record as collegiate head coach)

2021 record: 7-6 (3-6 Big 12)

Bowl result: Defeated Mississippi State, 34-7, in the Liberty Bowl

2021 offense: 416.5 yards per game (257.2 ypg passing, 159.2 ypg rushing) | 30.3 ppg

2021 defense: 404.8 yards per game (267.5 ypg passing, 137.4 ypg rushing) | 30.2 ppg

Starters returning (Off/Def): 8/7

Big 12 preseason media poll: 9th

Preseason All-Big 12 Selections: 0

Fan Guide

Five must follow Twitter accounts for Texas Tech fans:

@TechHoopsGuy – Don’t be deceived by the name; TechHoopsGuy is the best source on advanced metrics and betting data for all Texas Tech sports

@BenjaminGolan – For the six days of the week that Texas Tech isn’t on the field, Golan has you covered with Red Raiders’ recruiting gold.

@AJ_DonWilliams – As one of the longest tenured Texas Tech beat writers, Don Williams remains an absolute must follow for all things football.

@robbreauxshow – Rob consistently delivers Texas Tech sports coverage that is well-informed and comedic. Don’t miss his podcast, Gamblin’ Gauchos.

@RCMB323 – RC provides Texas Tech coverage from an endless well. His content is engaging, timely and educated.

Best places to tailgate on Saturday: Raider Alley is ditching its reputation as a timid and dull tailgate spot. With appearances by big name artists such as DJ Diesel (Shaquille O’Neal) and Wake Flocka Flame last year, Raider Alley has become a can’t miss scene for students. Alumni can head to Chimy’s on Broadway for cold drinks and good food before kickoff.

Best place to grab a post-game bite: If it’s your first time in Lubbock or your first trip in a while, a stop by Spanky’s for some fried cheese is a must. If you’re looking for something with less game day traffic, Dirk’s Chicken on 13th Street has become one of my favorite spots in town.

Best gameday tradition to play part in: There is nothing quite like throwing a tortilla onto the field at Jones AT&T Stadium. It’s one of the most notable traditions in Texas Tech fandom and a necessity for any true Red Raider.

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