Expectations are sky-high for Texas Tech’s offense this season. This is a familiar scenario in Lubbock, where the Red Raiders’ identity has been centered on scoring points for the past 25 years.
In 2024, the Red Raiders have significantly revamped their offense. Remarkably, nine players on the post-spring depth chart’s first or second team are new additions.
Newcomers like transfer receivers Josh Kelly and Caleb Douglas, transfer tight end Jalin Conyers, and true freshman signee Micah Hudson have brought a fresh spark to the offense. However, the progression of several returning players could also greatly enhance what offensive coordinator Zack Kittley can orchestrate.
Let’s focus on three returning offensive players who need to step up this season. Starting with the big-play potential of All-Big 12 kick returner Drae McCray.
Drae McCray must be an offensive threat, not just a kick returner
Last season, Texas Tech’s offense was sluggish and struggled to produce big plays, partly due to a lack of explosive speed among its weapons.
Aware of this deficiency, the coaching staff recruited the speedy Drae McCray from FCS program Austin Peay, where he amassed 1,888 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in two seasons. Despite contributing 717 yards and one TD as a kickoff returner, McCray had limited impact on offense, catching only 29 passes for 255 yards and two TDs with an average of just 8.8 yards per catch. This was partly due to QB Behren Morton’s shoulder injury and McCray’s underwhelming route running.
This year, Kittley must creatively integrate McCray into the offense. Despite the increased speed and athleticism, McCray remains the fastest player on the team, and utilizing his speed beyond the kick return game is crucial for the Red Raiders in 2024.
Mason Tharpe could be a matchup nightmare for Texas Tech
Although the offense has added talent at tight end, senior Mason Tharpe might have the most potential. Standing at 6-foot-9 and 270 pounds, he is a smooth route runner with soft hands and the strength to be an effective blocker.
Minor injuries have hindered Tharpe’s career, causing him to miss games in both 2022 and 2023. Despite this, he scored four touchdowns last season.
If Tharpe stays healthy and Tech maximizes his potential, he could become a formidable third-down and red-zone threat. Improved offensive line performance will also allow Tharpe to focus more on receiving rather than blocking, showcasing his full potential.
Coy Eakin has a big opportunity to step forward
Last season, wide receiver Coy Eakin and Morton developed chemistry, with Eakin recording 26 receptions for 281 yards and a TD over the final five games. This included a standout performance in the Independence Bowl with seven catches for 106 yards and a TD.
Eakin, a 6-foot-2, 210-pound receiver, plays with a physicality that belies his size. With the departure of taller receivers Loic Fouonji and Jerand Bradley, Eakin’s role as a physical outside target is vital.
Alongside 6-foot-4 transfer Caleb Douglas, Eakin needs to be the go-to player for contested catches and red-zone targets. Having reached 416 yards and two TDs last season, Eakin has the potential to significantly surpass these numbers in 2024.
