MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Emotions ran high in the Texas Tech locker room following their disappointing 23-0 defeat against Oregon in the Orange Bowl, with quarterback Behren Morton visibly upset as he reflected on the game. Head coach Joey McGuire opened the postgame news conference by expressing gratitude to Red Raiders fans for their support throughout the season, which included a Big 12 championship and a remarkable 12-win record. However, he acknowledged the stark disappointment of how the season concluded, especially given that his team has now become one of only three teams in the College Football Playoff era to be shut out.
“I’m sorry that we let you down,” McGuire stated, highlighting the pride he feels for his players and the special journey they underwent this year. The Red Raiders demonstrated significant progress, transforming from an eight-win team in 2024 to a team that earned a first-round bye in the CFP thanks to strategic investments exceeding $25 million made in their roster. This aggressive approach in the transfer portal showcased how mid-level programs can ascend to the upper echelons of college football in a short timeframe.
Despite their impressive offensive statistics throughout the season—including ranking second in the nation for plays of over 20 yards—the challenge of facing Oregon’s top-tier defense proved daunting. Texas Tech’s offensive struggles were on display, failing to effectively penetrate the Ducks’ formidable defense, which had previously held their opponents to minimal yardage.
McGuire commented on the contrast between Oregon’s defensive performance and what the Red Raiders had faced earlier in the season, admitting they faced a superior squad. “I think defensively that was probably the best defense we’ve faced this year,” he noted. Morton’s performance mirrored this sentiment; after a solid season in which he played through injury and held an impressive quarterback efficiency ranking, he encountered difficulties against Oregon, finishing with 137 yards, two interceptions, and four sacks.
As Texas Tech looks to the future, they face a challenging off-season. With Morton out of eligibility and backup quarterback Will Hammond sidelined with an ACL injury, the Red Raiders will be actively searching for a new starting quarterback as the transfer portal opens. They are rumored to be the frontrunners for Cincinnati transfer Brendan Sorsby, although they will face competition from other major programs like LSU and Miami.
The Red Raiders also have significant gaps to fill on both sides of the ball. Key defensive players such as David Bailey, Lee Hunter, and Jacob Rodriguez, along with offensive guards and top receivers, will all need to be replaced as they transition into the next season.
However, Texas Tech showcases a mindset of resilience and ambition. Their recently appointed athletic director, Kirby Hocutt, expressed confidence that the coaching staff would continue to elevate the program. The Red Raiders are focused not just on rebuilding but on improving their competitiveness in the College Football Playoff landscape.
“This was a great season,” Hocutt affirmed, indicating that the program is eager to enhance their capabilities ahead of next season. With determination to build an offense capable of scoring against elite defenses, Texas Tech embodies the spirit of modern college football, blending hope with strategic execution for future success.