Yup, you heard that right.  Now, let me explain.

 
I write this with cautious optimism (every Tech fan’s middle name, seems like).  We’ve seen mediocre and terrible performances by the offense.  We’ve seen terrible play-calling, terrible o-line play, and terrible decisions from a QB whom about half of DTN’ers wrote off as – well – terrible.  But, unlike last season, when injuries and poor play led to the Sticks Sheffield show, Taylor Potts has not been relieved of his duties.  We’ve seen Sheffield get a total of 3 plays thus far.

I don’t know what happened in the midst of that excruciating game in Ames, but something happened indeed.  Be it mentally, emotionally, physically, or supernaturally – something just changed.  There was timing, quickness, assertiveness, and drive in this offense.  While it wasn’t enough to overcome costly mistakes that put us over a barrel, it was something to build upon.

My theory is that Taylor Potts has no "out" anymore.  Last year, when he didn’t perform, at least there was a capable replacement.  You see, he wasn’t forced to get better.  Sheffield was his safety net. Don’t get me wrong, I sincerely believe he wanted to do great, he hated to struggle, and he wanted to win.  But, he never had a chance to finish what he started.  The coaches said "yeah, you’re struggling.  We’ll take care of it for you," and he was benched.  But now, these coaches have made it clear that they aren’t gonna bail him out of tough situations.  You made some bad decisions?  Tough, suck it up and make better decisions.  You got sacked?  Tough, learn to move around or next time will be worse.  I called a bad play?  Tough - use your safety valve route or get rid of the ball.

This, of course, comes with consequences.  Two losses so far seems a hefty price to pay, especially with a senior QB.  We’re less critical of those growing pains for young qb’s that can build on the experience for more seasons to come.  I am holding onto hope that the point has been made, though.  I’ll be the first to admit I wanted Sheffield to be our starting QB.  I’d seen enough last year.  I’d certainly seen enough after the UT debacle.  But maybe, just maybe, we have a new Taylor Potts.  Perhaps he’s been thrust into a leadership role that he’s finally realized he must take with this team.  Like it or not, he is the QB, and he’s the leader of this offense.  He’s by no means or measure perfect – no college QB is.  He will struggle again, but I hope and pray to the Sweet Baby Jesus he can lead this team when that situation arises.  We will soon find out.

I didn't see any other groups out there (correct me if there's already one set up).  So, I created not one, but TWO college pick 'em groups on Yahoo! Sports.  Here's the info:

Top 25 games group: deadline 5 minutes before 1st game, drop lowest week, picks are against the spread.

Group ID:  21224

password: top25dtn

Big 12 games group:  deadline 5 minutes before EACH game, drop lowest week, picks straight up.

Group ID:  21229

password: big12dtn

To join, go to Yahoo! College Pick 'em HERE.

Good luck, and WRECK 'EM!

Only a few rules.

1. No ticket brokers.

2. This is not a place to try to make money, either face value or lower.  We're here to help out other Red Raiders.

3. Once you've found a buyer, trade contact information and get it hooked up

Well, it was a defense-dominated game, especially by Texas Tech.  First half was lights-out, second half not-so much offensively, but some key stops on defense sealed the deal.  It's never easy to go into Lincoln and get a win against a ranked Cornhusker team that was the #2 scoring defense in the country coming in.  WIll we be ranked?  Who will start against the Aggies?  What do you say we talk about it?

For more, be sure to check out:

Red Raiders vs Cornhuskers boxscore

Corn Nation

[Note by Seth C, 10/17/09 6:41 PM CDT ] Maybe we should make him part of the post-game thread. Go Raiders!!!!

Thanks to some plays on defense Texas Tech is up 24-3 at the half.  Can our banged-up O-line keep Sheffield upright long enough to extend the lead?  Can our defense continue to pressure Nebraska QB Zac Lee?  Join in the 2nd half thread.

Facebook has language options which now includes Pirate.  Me thinks Cap'n Leach may be pleased.  Try it:

After you log in, scroll to the bottom where it says English(US),  a box will pop up and you can select English (Pirate).  Hit OK and enjoy!