No. 13 Texas Tech is preparing to face West Virginia’s rushing offense, which averages 261.6 yards per game and ranks fifth nationally. The Red Raiders’ defensive coordinator, Shiel Wood, described the Mountaineers’ offense as a “numbers game,” emphasizing their option-style approach and ability to outnumber defenders at the point of attack. Head coach Joey McGuire called West Virginia “a totally different animal,” noting their use of varied formations and perimeter stress to force one-on-one tackles. Texas Tech’s rushing defense has shown inconsistency, allowing 255 yards to Cincinnati in a Week 8 loss and just 12 rushing yards to Arizona a week later. West Virginia’s defensive unit, meanwhile, allows 483.9 yards per game, the most in the Big 12, but improved in a 24-20 victory over TCU, where they rushed for 186 yards despite being outgained by the Horned Frogs’ 266 yards.
West Virginia’s dual-threat quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. and running back Cam Cook have combined for 1,759 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns this season. Hawkins, who has passed for 1,598 yards and 11 touchdowns while also rushing for 836 yards and 16 touchdowns, is described by Wood as “opportunistic” and “another dual threat guy.” Cook, who has 923 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, is praised for his speed and ability to break tackles. Running back Cameron Dickey, who returned to action for the first time since an ankle injury at Colorado, is also a key contributor for Texas Tech.
Coaches Highlight West Virginia’s Rushing Challenge
McGuire emphasized the importance of “assignment football” for Texas Tech’s defense, citing West Virginia’s reliance on inside zone runs and RPOs. He noted that the Mountaineers’ success stems from “yards after contact,” a factor that contributed to their 24-20 win over TCU despite rushing for only 186 yards. Wood added that West Virginia’s offense ‘wants to play really fast’ and ‘outnumber you at the point of attack,’ requiring specific defensive roles like ‘dive player’ and ‘pitch player.’ Wood highlighted Hawkins’ versatility, calling him ‘opportunistic’ and noting that his ability to run and pass makes him a ‘tough, tough guy to defend.’ Cook’s explosiveness, including his ability to ‘make you miss’ and ‘break tackles,’ complicates Texas Tech’s defensive strategy.
It’s Game Week. 🆚 Texas Tech🏟️ Galaxy Stadium📍 Lubbock, Texas⏰ 8:30 PM CT / 9:30 PM ET📺 ESPN pic.twitter.com/i6TAT03imE
Adjustments for Late Kickoff and Defensive Strategy
Texas Tech is adjusting its pregame routine for the 8:30 p.m. kickoff, including extended stretching, walkthroughs, and additional treatment for players. The Red Raiders’ offensive coordinator, Mack Leftwich, called the matchup “a good challenge,” while McGuire expressed confidence in his team’s preparation. The game, which could impact Texas Tech’s Big 12 standings, is set for Saturday with a victory keeping the Red Raiders in contention against top teams BYU and Utah. Texas Tech’s rushing defense faces a test against West Virginia’s 261.5-yard-per-game ground attack, which ranks first in the Big 12 and sixth nationally. West Virginia’s offensive line, which includes running back Amari Latimer, has been essential in creating space for Hawkins and Cook, who combine to average 219.9 yards per game.
