Fitsum is having oral surgery this morning so I’m trying to wrap up and I have to be out of the house much earlier so an abbreviated Morning Stake.

On the Pitch

Texas Tech: No. 8 Tech opens 2024 season at No. 4 Penn State

MATCHUP: No. 8 Texas Tech (0-0-0) at No. 4 Penn State (0-0-0)
DATE: Thursday, Aug. 15
TIME: 7 p.m. (ET)/6 p.m. (CT)
LOCATION: State College, Pa. (Jeffery Field)

On the Court

Texas Tech: Gerlich Named to Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025

On the Gridiron

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal’s Nathan Giese: Texas Tech football’s Sheridan Wilson leaned on brother to get past being ‘overlooked’

“I think it was just a timing thing for him,” McGuire said of Wilson, “as far as him getting his opportunity, and the time he’s probably most ready.”

Wilson said McGuire has made an impact on him since his arrival, expanding his football IQ and instilling confidence in the 6-foot-5, 300 pounder. Wilson said his main objective after last season was to become a starter — which he is on track to accomplish — and help the Red Raiders win a Big 12 championship.

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal’s Nathan Giese: Redshirt freshman’s martial arts skills coming in handy for Texas Tech football

Horne is in the mix of those other young linebackers. His standout performance in the scrimmage was a good start. The interception he came up with was also a good chance to how off his “ninja hands,” as Bookbinder calls them.

“Every time I rush the quarterback,” Horne said of Bookbinder, “he says something about my hands.”

The son of a martial arts instructor, Horne is a third-degree black belt, taking part in just about every variation there is. He took up karate when he was around 2 years old and also competed in kickboxing, taekwondo and sanda, which is a mix of all martial arts.

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal’s Don Williams: Texas Tech football gets tips on tackling from across the pond

“We changed our whole tackling circuit,” McGuire said, “because we were not terrible, but we weren’t great at tackling in space.”

Rugby-style tackling techniques have been incorporated for several years into American football, partly to lessen concussions. The Miami Dolphins enlisted Gray to begin consulting with their team in 2016. More recently, he’s been credited as the brains behind the “Tush Push,” the rugby-style scrum the Philadelphia Eagles have used to power up an old-fashioned quarterback sneak.
His input into the Red Raiders, though, has focused on tackling.

“I think just seeing a new perspective,” linebacker John Curry said, “because our whole entire lives, we’ve been taught how to tackle in the football style. But with his teachings on how to tackle in rugby, it’s just brought us a new perspective on how to do things differently.”

Texas Tech: Wallace provides another $5 million gift to Texas Tech

This is Wallace’s second $5 million gift specifically earmarked for the South End Zone and Womble Football Center project as he was previously a lead contributor in Texas Tech’s early fundraising efforts in March 2022. In recognition of his two gifts, Texas Tech will name the southwest bell tower in the new South End Zone Building as well as the outdoor turf practice field in his honor.

“Mike Wallace is passionate about this university and our success, and we can’t thank him enough for another generous contribution to the future of this football program,” Director of Athletics Kirby Hocutt said. “This facility will not take a backseat to anyone in the country when it officially opens in the coming weeks. This is all due to the support of numerous loyal supporters like Mike Wallace.”

Red Raider Sports’ Ben Golan: Tracking the off-season gains, losses by Texas Tech Football

Outside Linebacker Coach C.J. Ah You with ChatGPT Summary

Competitive Camp Environment: The team is experiencing a highly competitive camp with frequent rotations and positional changes, ensuring no player becomes too comfortable.

Player Performance: Harvey Dyson has been the most consistent performer, while younger players like Isaac and Charles are showing promise but need to adjust after injuries and time off.

Depth and Rotation: The defensive line has strong depth, allowing for rotation of six to seven players based on different game situations, with an emphasis on versatility and fresh legs.

Improving Production: The main focus is on production during games rather than practice performance, especially in high-pressure situations, with an emphasis on translating practice success into game-day results.

Offensive Line Competition: The offensive line has shown significant improvement, with intense daily battles and strong performances, reflecting well on Coach Clay’s training.

Inside Linebacker Coach Josh Bookbinder with ChatGPT Summary

John Curry’s Progress: John Curry has made significant strides since the spring, positioning himself to play a major role this season. Despite being a young player, he’s learning quickly and is expected to contribute substantially in the fall.

Depth and Competition: The team has a deep roster with strong competition for spots, especially for the fourth and fifth positions. The coaching staff is pleased with the overall improvement and effort from all players.

Impact of Scrimmages: Saturday’s scrimmage will significantly influence the depth chart and final roster decisions, as it provides valuable live-action experience for assessing player performance.

Richie Gray’s Influence: Rugby coach Richie Gray has been involved with the team, offering expertise on tackling techniques and equipment. His insights and specialized gear have enhanced the team’s tackling drills and offseason conditioning.

Dingle’s Role: Dingle, who initially played as a star linebacker, has returned to his original linebacker position. This move allows him to recover from injuries and utilize his diverse skill set more effectively in the defense.