2008 Texas Tech Red Raiders Football Predictions

The Red Raiders have not won an outright conference title since 1955. If they are ever going to pull it off, this has to be the year. Their offense and defense will both be among the best in the league with plenty of returning talent on both sides of the ball. Find out Tech's chances of bringing home their first title in 53 years in Jimmy Boyd's 2008 Texas Tech Red Raiders predictions and season preview.
 

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Offense

If you think a 53 year outright conference championship drought is lengthy, consider that the Red Raiders have never had a Heisman Trophy winner. But that could all change this season with QB Graham Harrell or wide receiver Michael Crabtree. Crabtree is only a sophomore, but he dazzled last season, gaining nearly 2,000 receiving yards and scoring 22 touchdowns while winning the Biletnikoff Award. The scary thing is that this kid is still learning all the nuances of the position. If he doesn't win the Heisman, maybe the guys getting him the ball will. Harrell has passed for a ridiculous 10,260 yards and 86 touchdowns the past two seasons. And I wouldn't be surprised if he has his best year yet as he has the luxury of three more solid receivers and a line that is considered the best in school history. Running back is the only spot still up in the air, but the Red Raiders have four top prospects to work with.

Defense

Ever since Ruffin McNeill took over as defensive coordinator last September, following a terrible loss to Oklahoma State, the Red Raiders' defense has been one tough cookie. Don't look now, but the defense actually out played the Raiders high powered offense this spring. This is what has brought up all the title talk. The secondary is led by veteran safety Darcel McBarth, who has 26 career starts, and big play corner Jamar wall, who is coming off a five interception season. The defensive line houses proven run stuffers Rajon Henley and Colby Whitlock. The Horns are deep at defensive ends also with four guys who can start. Brian Duncan anchors the linebacker corps in the middle with Marlon Williams on the weak side and Bront Bird and Tyrone Sonier battling it out for strong side.

Special Teams

I don't think it's possible for the Red Raiders to get a place kicker as consistent as Alex Trlica who amazed by making 233 consecutive PAT's. True freshman Donnie Carona or walk-ons Cory Fowler and Brad Namdar will battle for kicking duties. Jonathan LaCour is a top notch punter who averaged 42.6 yards per punt last season. The return game should be solid with a number of capable wideouts to share in the duties.

Prediction – 3rd in Big 12 South

Tech's schedule hurts its title chances as much as anything this season. They must go to Texas A&M, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The Oklahoma game on November 22nd could be the one that breaks their backs. It will be an exciting year for Red Raider football, but playing in a tough league will be unforgiving.  Hosting Texas will likely be tough too, but getting Oklahoma State and Baylor at home could mean a couple easy wins.

Make sure you're betting college football with World Champion handicapper Jimmy Boyd all season long for the most profits you've ever seen on the gridiron. It won't take you long to see why Jimmy is considered the best in the biz at bringing down the house.

June 18th, 2008