4. Texas Tech
I feel that many people are overlooking this year’s Texas Tech team. A decent 7-5 regular season finish overshadowed the fact that they beat Oklahoma in a 51-48 shootout and Ole Miss in the Texas Bowl. As the season went on, they continued to improve, and all but one of their losses was to a ranked school.
Quarterback Tyler Shough, who split time with Donovan Smith and Behren Morton last season, should be the clear-cut Week 1 starter. The Red Raiders’ defense returns the majority of its talent from last year and has high expectations heading into the year.
As head coach Joey McGuire enters his second season, I expect Texas Tech to break out. The offense can be electric when everything is clicking, and another year of experience should enhance the defense.