Way-too-early top 25 for college football in 2026: 8 - Texas Tech
The Red Raiders surprised the nation with just how elite their defense in particular was this past season, as Romello Height, David Bailey, and Jacob Rodriguez terrorized Big 12 offenses all season. Tech was near the top of every sack and pressure stat all year, shutting down opposing attacks with aplomb.
Yet, when the lights were brightest, they were unable to produce. It should be said that the problems there were chiefly on offense, as the Red Raiders were shut out against the Oregon Ducks, but you can't help but feel that Texas Tech still was not quite at that top level that true championship contenders have to reach.
Combine that with the fact that their regular season schedule left a lot to be desired, and there's still some healthy skepticism for the Red Raiders headed into next year. They once again cleaned up in the portal, and are beginning to see the results of the resources they've invested in high school recruiting as well, but their 2026 schedule means they will once more be an enigma until the playoff rolls around.
Cody Campbell is determined to make the Red Raiders a story in the sport, refusing to let them be left behind going forward. Props to him for that, but we'll see just how sustainable his strategy is in the upcoming years.