Keys to the Game: What Baylor Must do to Upset Texas Tech
Baylor has another tall task this week as they head to Lubbock to face a Texas Tech team that has emerged as one of the better programs in the Big 12 this season. The Bears desperately need a win, but getting one on the Red Raiders' homecoming is a difficult challenge.
Here are three keys to the game that Baylor must achieve to pull off the upset in West Texas.
1: Bottle up Tahj Brooks
This is definitely easier said than done, especially with Baylor ranked 13-of-16 in rushing defense in the Big 12 and Tahj Brooks (Sr) being the rushing leader. Through six games this season, Baylor has given up 969 yards on the ground while opponents have averaged 3.8 yards per carry.
Brooks comes into this game ranked third in the FBS in rushing with 135.8 yards per game. The senior has eclipsed the century mark in all five games he’s played this season and has rushed for at least 95 yards in 16 consecutive games. During last season’s game against Baylor, Brooks rushed for 170 yards and one touchdown.
2: Don’t Throw Interceptions
This will likely be another game where Sawyer Robertson (RJr.) is asked to try and will Baylor to a victory with his arm, which perfectly fits what Texas Tech does on defense. Robertson is clearly Baylor’s best player, but the lack of help around him has led to some forced throws that have resulted in costly turnovers.
Texas Tech lives by the old Baylor ‘Take 3’ mantra, which has led to eight interceptions for its defense this season. The Red Raiders have scored 68 points off turnovers this season, the most since 2017.
3: Start Fast
Baylor can’t seem to get off to a fast start to save their lives, which has been detrimental to their success this season. The Bears can’t afford another BYU-style start in Lubbock, or this game will get off the rails quickly. If Baylor can look like a competent football team early on and not just go through the motions like they're playing in quicksand, then maybe they can actually put together a full game and pull off the upset.
Conclusion:
It’s a broken record at this point, but Baylor can beat Texas Tech. I’m just not confident enough to pick them to do it. I think the Bears can score on the Red Raiders, but I’m still giving the edge to Texas Tech 38-30.
Kickoff between Baylor (2-4, 0-3) and Texas Tech (5-1, 3-0) is set for 3 p.m. at Jones AT&T Stadium and will be aired on ESPN2. Be sure to watch the 365 Sports pregame show from 9-10:30 a.m. on YouTube or KWTX.