“Joey McGuire’s Game Plan: Texas Tech Takes on Cincinnati in Homestand Finale!”

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – The Texas Tech Red Raiders (3-1) are set to conclude a three-game homestand on Saturday, hosting the Cincinnati Bearcats at 7 p.m. at Jones AT&T Stadium. Fans are encouraged to wear black for a blackout atmosphere.

Coach Joey McGuire, along with defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter and offensive coordinator Zach Kittley, held a media session on Monday to discuss their recent victory over Arizona State and to prepare for the upcoming matchup against Cincinnati.

McGuire Celebrates Big 12 Opening Win

In his opening remarks, McGuire praised the Red Raider fans for their enthusiastic support during the game against the Sun Devils. He also extended thanks to his strength and conditioning staff, highlighting the players’ hydration and care that allowed them to perform without issues, despite the heat.

The scout team players of the week included outside linebacker Cheta Ofili, recognized by the offense, and Wesley Smith, who emulated Arizona State’s running back Cam Skattebo by wearing No. 4.

The Red Raiders effectively held the Sun Devils to just 99 rushing yards, despite Arizona State coming into the game with a strong average of 229.3 yards per game. This week, they face a Bearcat team that averages 467.5 total offensive yards, including 126.3 rushing yards.

Bearcat Offense Boasts Future Prospects

McGuire acknowledged the significant talent on Cincinnati’s offense, mentioning key players like tight end Joe Royer, a transfer from Ohio State, offensive lineman Luke Kandra, running back Corey Kiner, and receiver Xzavier Henderson, as well as nose guard Dontay Corleone and quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who has yet to turn the ball over this season.

Kiner currently ranks No. 18 in rushing yards with 404 yards and two touchdowns, followed closely by Tech’s running back Tahj Brooks at No. 24 with 379 yards. McGuire emphasized that Cincinnati’s coach, Scott Satterfield, has a history of success with a strong ground game, making it crucial for Tech’s defense to maintain their effectiveness against the run.

DeRuyter noted that Cincinnati’s offense employs wide zone concepts, requiring the defense to set the edges properly. He explained that they’ll primarily run inside and outside zone plays, using shifts and motions to create confusion. Staying disciplined will be key to responding effectively to their strategy.

Cincinnati’s Defense Mirrors Other Big 12 Teams

The Bearcat defense is led by a familiar face: Tyson Veidt, former Iowa State linebackers coach, now under Satterfield’s administration. McGuire commented on the odd stack defense that the Bearcats run, which he has encountered before during his last year at Baylor. Kittley added that their defensive scheme resembles what Tech faced against Abilene Christian and North Texas.

Kittley remarked on the physicality of the Bearcats, especially in the trenches, crediting Corleone’s presence.

“It’s beneficial for us since we’ve practiced against similar setups a lot this season, and we have strategies that have shown success against them,” Kittley said.

Receiver Status in Question

Leading receiver Josh Kelly, currently ranked No. 11 in receiving yards with 376, is listed as questionable for the game due to an ankle injury. However, McGuire remains optimistic that Kelly will play, saying he would be surprised if he isn’t ready. If he can’t go, players like Drae McCrae and Brady Boyd are prepared to step in.

Availability Report Summary

• OUT FOR SEASON:
  • OLB Dylan Spencer – Knee
  • OLB Joseph Adedire – Knee
  • OL Vinny Sciury – Knee
  • RB Cam’Ron Valdez – Knee
• OUT:
  • DB Javeon Wilcox – Knee
• QUESTIONABLE:
  • OLB Charles Esters – Thigh
  • DL De’Braylon Carroll – Leg
  • WR Jordan Brown – Shoulder
  • DB Bralyn Lux – Thigh
  • WR Josh Kelly – Ankle
  • LB Ben Roberts – Shoulder
  • OLB Amier Washington – Hip