Sophomore quarterback Davis Webb
The pass-happy Texas Tech offense runs through Webb, who has emerged as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in the Big 12 this season. After an impressive freshman campaign in 2013, Webb leads the conference with 24 touchdown passes and stands second with 2,539 passing yards through eight games this year. Webb has passed for at least 247 yards and two touchdowns in every game this season, and he’s already thrown at least three touchdown passes in six games. If he’s healthy enough to play, Webb could be in store for another big game against a Texas secondary that allowed 345 passing yards and three touchdowns to Iowa State quarterback Sam B. Richardson just two weeks ago.
Junior wide receiver Jakeem Grant
Grant has become Webb’s favorite target this season, leading the Red Raiders with 52 receptions and 699 yards while sitting in a tie for second on the team with five touchdowns. The junior has been extremely consistent, turning in at least 70 receiving yards in each of his last seven games and hauling in at least five receptions seven times this season. At 5 feet 6 inches and 169 pounds, Grant is one of the smallest receivers in the Big 12, but he’s made a career for himself in Texas Tech’s quick-paced passing game. Last year, he made 65 receptions for 796 yards and seven touchdowns, and he’s on pace to shatter each of those marks this season.
Senior wide receiver Bradley Marquez
Marquez has been almost as dynamic as Grant this season, placing second on the team with 47 receptions for 582 yards while leading the Red Raiders with seven touchdown receptions. Marquez got off to a torrid start this season, recording 26 receptions and six touchdowns in his first four games. He’s slowed down since, but he’s remained effective, hauling in at least five catches for 65 yards in each of his last three games. That being said, the Longhorns held Marquez in check last season, allowing him just three receptions for 23 yards.
Junior running back DeAndre Washington
In Texas Tech’s high-octane passing attack, Washington has provided the perfect balance on the ground through eight games. The junior leads Texas Tech with 699 rushing yards on 125 attempts, and he’s already rushed for over 100 yards in three games. Washington hasn’t scored a touchdown since the season opener, but he’s remained extremely effective, as he’s averaging 5.6 yards per carry. He’s also established himself as a threat in the passing game, making 17 receptions for 110 yards through eight games.
