Despite his third injury exit of the season, Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton is expected to lead the undefeated Red Raiders against Arizona State. His remarkable toughness, combined with a potent rushing attack, keeps Texas Tech’s perfect season hopes alive as they face a fellow Big 12 contender dealing with their own quarterback woes.
For the third time this season, Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton left the field with an injury during a game his team ultimately won. The latest incident occurred during the second quarter against Kansas on Saturday, where Morton was observed favoring his right leg after a sack. Despite the recurring setbacks, head coach Joey McGuire expressed strong confidence that his starting signal-caller will be back in action.
“That dude’s the toughest kid I’ve ever coached. His pain tolerance and just toughness and care factor is really high,” McGuire stated, underscoring Morton’s determination. This resilience is a key factor as the undefeated Red Raiders, currently ranked No. 7 in the nation with a 6-0 record, prepare to travel to Tempe to face defending Big 12 champion Arizona State (4-2).
Morton’s Remarkable Resilience and Texas Tech’s Offensive Prowess
Behren Morton’s ability to consistently return to the lineup has become a hallmark of Texas Tech’s inspiring season. While he has started all six games for the Red Raiders in 2025, he has only managed to finish one. This recurring pattern highlights not only his grit but also the team’s capacity to win even when their star quarterback is briefly sidelined.
Morton’s individual performance this season has been impressive, completing 68.4% of his passes (104 of 152) for 1,501 yards, 13 touchdowns, and only three interceptions. However, the Red Raiders haven’t relied solely on his arm. A robust running game has provided a crucial safety net, exemplified by Cameron Dickey’s dominant 263-yard rushing performance against Kansas last week. This balanced attack allows Texas Tech to sustain drives and control games, even in Morton’s absence.
The Sun Devils’ Own Quarterback Quandary
The upcoming clash isn’t just about Texas Tech’s quarterback health; Arizona State is grappling with similar issues. Sun Devils’ starting quarterback Sam Leavitt has been playing through an injury for several weeks and was eventually downgraded before their significant loss to Utah. If Leavitt is unable to play, backup Jeff Sims would once again take the reins.
Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his team’s quarterback situation, stating, “We’re still in that same holding pattern i would say, unfortunately.” The dual QB injury situations add an unpredictable layer to an already crucial conference matchup, forcing both coaching staffs to prepare for multiple scenarios.
A Crucial Big 12 Showdown with History and Warnings
This week’s game holds significant weight for both teams. Texas Tech, sitting at 3-0 in the Big 12, is looking to extend its undefeated run against the defending conference champions. Last season, the Red Raiders got the better of Arizona State in Lubbock, jumping out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter and ultimately winning 30-22. In that game, Morton showcased his potential, passing for two touchdowns and 201 yards.
Coach Dillingham understands the challenge presented by the Red Raiders, even hinting at the depth of Texas Tech’s squad. He specifically pointed to Texas Tech’s earlier season win over Utah as a warning for his team. The Utes had convincingly beaten Arizona State 42-10 just last week. Dillingham emphasized the Red Raiders’ physical play:
- “Texas Tech played this team (Utah) and they won.”
- “And they won the line of scrimmage.”
- “So that tells you what their front is like on both sides of the ball.”
This “Utah warning” highlights the strength of Texas Tech’s offensive and defensive lines, suggesting that even if backup Will Hammond has to step in for Morton, the Red Raiders remain a formidable opponent. Hammond notably came on in relief to help secure the victory against the Utes, proving the depth of the Red Raider quarterback room. You can find more details about Arizona State’s season and team dynamics on CBS Sports.
Fan Anticipation and Strategic Implications
The fan community for Texas Tech is buzzing with excitement over their undefeated start, but also with cautious optimism regarding Morton’s health. Debates rage on fan forums and social media about how much his “day-to-day” status truly impacts game strategy versus the impressive depth demonstrated by the running game and even backup Hammond. The belief in McGuire’s ability to prepare the team for any scenario is high.
For Arizona State fans, the focus is on their team’s resilience and ability to bounce back from the tough Utah loss, especially with their own quarterback questions looming. The game is seen as a true test of character and a pivotal moment in the Big 12 race for both programs, setting the stage for a compelling matchup this week in Tempe.
