Arizona vs. Texas Tech: TTU's Playoff Hopes Under Pressure

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Texas Tech’s Playoff Potential Comes Into Question Against Arizona

Texas Tech was a preseason pick to win the title after navigating the portal well enough to compete in a soft Big 12 and reach the playoff. That outlook is now uncertain, especially following the loss to Cincinnati.

The Red Raiders have yet to look playoff-worthy or display the down-to-down defensive excellence they showed last year. Their defense has produced splash plays, but the overall performance has not been as dominant.

A potential quarterback change is also being discussed. Will Hammond appeared to have some juice, but he has recorded six touchdowns and six interceptions while averaging 7.6 yards per pass. He has not been particularly effective on the ground, either. Turning to Tommy Castellanos may not inspire much more confidence.

Texas Tech is still the lean against Arizona and should be capable of handling business, but the team’s bigger outlook remains concerning.

If Brandon Soarsby had been eligible to play, Texas Tech likely would have been ranked among the top five teams in the country. A stronger offense would have given the defense more time to develop. Soarsby might also have been in the Heisman race alongside Mensa.

There appeared to be value in Texas Tech’s adjusted outlook without Soarsby, but the numbers were adjusted well. Ultimately, this team is simply not as good as it could have been.