Viva The Matadors - Kansas vs. Texas Tech: Story StreamTHE Site For All Red Raider Sports Fans!https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50015/vtm-fav.png2014-10-19T06:14:45-05:00http://www.vivathematadors.com/rss/stream/67322502014-10-19T06:14:45-05:002014-10-19T06:14:45-05:00Ten Thoughts on Texas Tech 34, Kansas 21
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<figcaption>Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Texas Tech earns a win against the Kansas Jayhawks, behind the strong running game of DeAndre Washington and a Texas Tech defense that forced Kansas into a couple of turnovers and 4 of 14 on 3rd down.</p> <center><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/IrVaaO_KOkU?list=UUeGcdO4Xell4mdc_RLIjEew" height="315" width="560"></iframe></center>
<p><b>1. Feels Good.</b> Pretty nice little win as far as I'm concerned. Kansas came in averaging 155 yards a game running the ball and about 175 passing the ball. The Texas Tech defense did a pretty remarkable job of stopping the run, especially for a team that's been so maligned this year, allowing only 128 yards rushing and 3.2 yards per carry. That's some really nice production for a maligned defense. I'd also add that the pass defense, especially with the injury to <span>Keenon Ward</span>, was significant and the dismissal of <span>Josh Keys</span>, it meant that the team was playing a ton of guys that had not seen a lot of time, including <span>Jalen Barnes</span> and <span>Derrick Dixon</span>. That's two more freshman playing significant time, along side <span>J.J. Gaines</span>. Lots and lots of freshmen playing this year and getting some good experience. Let's add to the idea that the only real significant blunder by the safeties was the Mundine touchdown catch, where there was no one over the top. Again, for having relatively no experience at one safety spot, that's not bad. The worst part of the defense, and this is something that will have to be better, is the long completions. Nigel Bethel, II has to still work on his timing and that comes with experience more than anything else. The most encouraging thing is that Bethel is there with the receiver and not chasing. The same thing with <span>Justis Nelson</span>, who appears to be progressing thus far.</p>
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<p>Overall though, this felt like a real team win. More players stepped up than I can recall and I won't get to every play or player here. Just too many to name or consider, but this was a good team win, everyone pulled their part.</p>
<p><b>2. Pedestrian Numbers.</b> <span>Davis Webb</span> put up pretty pedestrian numbers this week, 28 of 44 for 288, averaging about 6.5 yards per attempt with 3 touchdowns and 1 pick, plus a fumble, although Reshod Fortenberry and <span>Baylen Brown</span> should get a little credit for that fumble. The numbers were pedestrian, for me, and that's just fine. Webb wasn't asked to do as much this week because the running game was simply clicking and couldn't be stopped. I thought that Webb was off early, throwing passes that were a bit out of the strike zone for some players, but there were still a lot of drops too. <span>Jakeem Grant</span> had a couple (I think) and <span>Ian Sadler</span> had a drop that would have extended a second half drive. Hit him right in the breadbasket and he'll get more opportunities in his career to get that back. The worst part of Webb's day was the interception late in the first half, throwing the ball to <span>Ben Heeney</span>. Just never saw him. That interception allowed Kansas to get a late first half touchdown. That's the worst part of Webb's game, the timing aspect of some of his turnovers as it would have been nice to add a score, a field goal or a touchdown, to go up by 20 or 24 on Kansas. Kingsbury mentioned after the game that not being able to finish drives is still something that's problematic with this team.</p>
<blockquote>It wasn't our best game, that's for sure, but I was just happy to see us find a way to win in the end. Once again, I thought we had times to really stretch it out. Defense got big stops and offense wasn't able to capitalize, and that's kind of been the story of our season, so we have to continue to work on rising up in all three phases and putting teams away.</blockquote>
<p><b>3. Washington's Career Day.</b> How about that day for <span>DeAndre Washington</span>? Just a fantastic day and just reinforced that he is this team's best player on offense. Washington finished with 164 yards on 23 touches, averaging 7.1 yards per rush, plus another 21 yards on 2 catches. That's 7.4 yards per touch for Washington and it is clear that Kingsbury wants the ball in Washington's hands and the offensive line is giving him lots of daylight to run the ball. Add in some real nice blocks by <span>Rodney Hall</span> and <span>Kenny Williams</span> and it is pretty clear that Kingsbury knows he has to run the ball more to help mitigate and take some of the pressure off of Webb with Webb's injury. And yeah, I know that Webb isn't listed as being injured, but the fact that he's gone three straight games with that shoulder wrapped should tell you something. We don't know what that injury is, but we know that he has it and there's something about Webb's range of motion that's just a bit off.</p>
<p><b>4. Big Plays on Defense.</b> Lots of big plays, including 9 tackles for a loss, plus a fumble recover, an interception by J.J. Gaines, where he did a pretty nice job of tracking that ball, plus 4 sacks and 5 pass break-ups. The defense feels like a MASH unit right now, lots of guys out or just not playing or whatever. I'm at the point where I am having to look at the roster to figure out the number of the player because I'm just not recognizing some of the players. And it seemed like players were just going down like flies and then returning. We talked about this a bit last week, but the best thing that's happened since <span>Mike Smith</span> took over is that there are significantly more plays being made. The yards are still being given up on a consistent basis, although the defense was about 120 yards below their season average on yards allowed, but the difference is the plays and more turnovers that are being made. That wasn't happening really with Wallerstedt. One other thing is how quickly <span>Mike Smith</span> ended the Kenny Williams at linebacker experiment. That happened pretty quickly after Smith was put in charge.</p>
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<iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/rOIBvFb4X_Q?list=UUeGcdO4Xell4mdc_RLIjEew"></iframe> <em>Kliff Kingsbury Press Conference</em>
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<p><b>5. Injury List.</b> This was a surprise prior to the game. S Keenon Ward, DT Anthony Smith, and we knew about DT Demetrius Alston was also out prior ot the game. That's a lot of depth and that meant that a lot of younger guys got time, guys like <span>Donte Phillips</span> and really anyone else that could fill in along the defensive line. Plus, Jakeem Grant twisted an ankle, although they said he would be fine. <span>Bradley Marquez</span> had a rib contusion and left pretty early. <span>Andre Ross</span> left at the tail end of the game, subbed in for by <span>Gary Moore</span>, with some sort of injury. This seemed to be a really rough game for injuries overall and this isn't exactly a team full of depth. We'll see how this plays out this week, but if Marquez misses significant time, you can expect Sadler to fill in even ore and Cameron Batson to maybe get some burn as well.</p>
<p><b>6. Spreading the Ball Around.</b> The one thing that I very much liked from Webb this game was how much he spread the ball around. Grant had 6 catches, Marquez had 6, Sadler had 4, <span>Reginald Davis</span> had 3 and <span>Dylan Cantrell</span> had 2. Go ahead and add in a handful of catches, 5 total, for Washington, Kenny Williams and <span>Justin Stockton</span> and that's 9 players with at least 1 catch (excluding Webb who caught his own pass). We've had a pretty decent complaint for the year about how Webb locks in on just one or two receivers and that wasn't the case this week and it was nice to see. Maybe the injuries to Grant and Marquez helped Webb trust some guys more, as that's a big part of the process as well.</p>
<p><b>7. Gone.</b> Well, prior to the game, we find out that RB Tyler Middleton has left the team and transferred and S Josh Keys was dismissed from the team. That's some roster turnover right in the middle of the season and a bit surprising. Kingsbury actually said that Keys is no longer with the team for the remainder of the season and was a violation of team rules and didn't get into specifics. Kingsbury didn't go any further about whether there was any chance he would be back. Normally, this sort of story has it's own post, but will be buried in the the post-game write-up and it is significant from the respect that Keys was a 4-star safety and was thought to be a big part of the rotation. Keys has been suspended for what seems like a couple of games this year and there's just no way to speculate how or what Keys did, but there was something off about his behavior, enough to drop him from your team AND when your best defender, Keenon Ward, is out for the game with an injury. Coaches don't like cutting players generally speaking, especially ones that give you at least some value, but that leash had apparently been cut incredibly short with Keys and he's now a footnote of a JUCO player that didn't work out.</p>
<p><b>8. Penalties?</b> Yeah, only 4 for 22 yards. Rejoice. A pretty clean game overall and what a relief. Give some credit to the coaching staff for getting at least 1 game cleaned up. The worst penalty came when <span>Austin Stewart</span> didn't line up on the line of scrimmage on a punt, which negated the ball being downed by Stewart at the 1 in the first half.</p>
<div class="pullquote">One thing that you probably didn't see on TV or in the game was him pumping up Ian Sadler and really getting in his head, hey, Ian, you got this. Look for this, watch out for this. He's a great teammate. <span>-Davis Webb on Bradley Marquez</span>
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<p><b>9. Rough on Third Downs.</b> Really, this goes for the offense, in a not-so-good-way, and the defense, in a very-good-sort-of-way. On third downs, Texas Tech only converted 5 of 15 on third downs, or 33%. Some of them bad passes by Webb and others were simply drops. Still, only 5 conversions is problematic and against TCU, that will have to improve. The defense though also was really great on third downs as the only allowed 28% of third down conversions. The defense did a pretty terrific job of getting Kansas off the field for the better part of the day.</p>
<p><b>10.a. Sadler's First.</b> Really nice corner route by Ian Sadler to record his first touchdown of his career. Actually, all three of Webb's touchdowns showed some pretty nice touch, the one to Sadler was really terrific and Reginald Davis' touchdown was a similar throw. Marquez over the middle, where Webb had to throw over the defnse, placed the ball right were Marquez could get it.</p>
<p><b>10.b. Special Teams.</b> I haven't talked a ton about special teams, but after the disaster last week, where P <span>Taylor Symmank</span> punted the ball into the endzone, he very much had a big punt at the end of the game, punting the ball out of bounds at the 1 yard line. We've already mentioned how Stewart almost had another opportunity to pin another one deep had it not been for Stewart's own penalty. The punt returns were shaky, at best and there really weren't a ton of opportunities otherwise.</p>
<p><b>10.c. Redzone Scores.</b> Last week, Texas Tech very much shot themselves in the foot after not being able to convert redzone opportunities into touchdowns. This week, Texas Tech converted all 4 opportunities and 3 of those opportunities resulted in touchdowns. That's significantly better.</p>
<p><b>10.d. They're Pulling for Each Other. </b> We talk about whether or not this team is maybe losing interest or not fully invested and Webb was asked about Marquez's injury and Webb told a pretty neat story, which, I think shows that this team is still fighting quite a bit and they are all pulling for each other:</p>
<blockquote>Yeah, I haven't talked to my roommate yet. He's in high spirits. I think he's okay. Yeah, he's one of my best friends and he's a competitor. One thing that you probably didn't see on TV or in the game was him pumping up Ian Sadler and really getting in his head, hey, Ian, you got this. Look for this, watch out for this. He's a great teammate. That's why he's a captain, and I'm really proud of him as a best friend and roommate. He'll be okay though. He's tough.</blockquote>
https://www.vivathematadors.com/2014/10/19/7002137/ten-thoughts-on-texas-tech-34-kansas-21Seth C2014-10-18T16:30:02-05:002014-10-18T16:30:02-05:00Game Thread III: Kansas vs. Texas Tech
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<figcaption>Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Let's do this.</p> <center>
<p><b><img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/1710429/Kansas_Helmet__MG_.gif" height="75"> Kansas vs. Texas Tech <img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/1710437/Texas_Tech_Helmet_Present__MG_.gif" height="75"></b></p>
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<p><b>Date:</b> October 18, 2014<br> <b>Time:</b> 2:30 pm CST<br> <b>Good Guys:</b> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.vivathematadors.com/">Texas Tech Red Raiders</a><br> <b>Bad Guys:</b> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rockchalktalk.com/">Kansas Jayhawks</a><br> <b>Location:</b> Jones AT&T Stadium | Lubbock, TX<br> <b>Weather:</b> <a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USTX0808" target="newwindow">High of 72, low of 55</a><br> <b>TV/Stream:</b> FSN <br> <b>Radio/Stream:</b> <a target="newwindow" href="http://sportsaffiliates.learfieldsports.com/affiliates/texas-tech">Broadcast Affiliates</a> and <a target="newwindow" href="http://tunein.com/">TuneIn App</a></p>
https://www.vivathematadors.com/2014/10/18/6997917/game-thread-iii-kansas-vs-texas-techSeth C2014-10-18T15:00:03-05:002014-10-18T15:00:03-05:00Game Thread II: Kansas vs. Texas Tech
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<figcaption>Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Let's do this.</p> <center>
<p><b><img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/1710429/Kansas_Helmet__MG_.gif" height="75"> Kansas vs. Texas Tech <img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/1710437/Texas_Tech_Helmet_Present__MG_.gif" height="75"></b></p>
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<p><b>Date:</b> October 18, 2014<br> <b>Time:</b> 2:30 pm CST<br> <b>Good Guys:</b> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.vivathematadors.com/">Texas Tech Red Raiders</a><br> <b>Bad Guys:</b> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rockchalktalk.com/">Kansas Jayhawks</a><br> <b>Location:</b> Jones AT&T Stadium | Lubbock, TX<br> <b>Weather:</b> <a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USTX0808" target="newwindow">High of 72, low of 55</a><br> <b>TV/Stream:</b> FSN <br> <b>Radio/Stream:</b> <a target="newwindow" href="http://sportsaffiliates.learfieldsports.com/affiliates/texas-tech">Broadcast Affiliates</a> and <a target="newwindow" href="http://tunein.com/">TuneIn App</a></p>
https://www.vivathematadors.com/2014/10/18/6997915/game-thread-ii-kansas-vs-texas-techSeth C2014-10-18T05:00:52-05:002014-10-18T05:00:52-05:00Kansas vs. Texas Tech: Game Time, TV & Links
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<figcaption>John Weast</figcaption>
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<p>It's game day! We've got how and where to watch today's game against Kansas as well as your morning news, notes and links.</p> <center>
<p><b><img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/1710429/Kansas_Helmet__MG_.gif" height="75"> Kansas vs. Texas Tech <img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/1710437/Texas_Tech_Helmet_Present__MG_.gif" height="75"></b></p>
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<p><b>Date:</b> October 18, 2014<br> <b>Time:</b> 2:30 pm CST<br> <b>Good Guys:</b> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.vivathematadors.com/">Texas Tech Red Raiders</a><br> <b>Bad Guys:</b> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rockchalktalk.com/">Kansas Jayhawks</a><br> <b>Location:</b> Jones AT&T Stadium | Lubbock, TX<br> <b>Weather:</b> <a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USTX0808" target="newwindow">High of 72, low of 55</a><br> <b>TV/Stream:</b> FSN <br> <b>Radio/Stream:</b> <a target="newwindow" href="http://sportsaffiliates.learfieldsports.com/affiliates/texas-tech">Broadcast Affiliates</a> and <a target="newwindow" href="http://tunein.com/">TuneIn App</a> <br> <b>Vegas:</b> Texas Tech opened at -13.5 favorites and moved to -14 and now sits at -13 (via <a target="newwindow" href="http://www.oddsshark.com/ncaaf/kansas-texas-tech-odds-october-18-2014" style="background-color: #ffffff;">OddsShark</a>)</p>
<p>* <a target="_blank" href="http://redraiders.com/sports-red-raiders-football/2014-10-17/road-woes-plague-kansas-big-12#.VEIxQ4vF-wE">Road woes plague Kansas in Big 12 | Red Raiders</a><br>* <a target="_blank" href="http://redraiders.com/sports-red-raiders-football/2014-10-17/texas-tech-big-opportunity-against-kansas#.VEIxL4vF-wE">Texas Tech with big opportunity against Kansas | Red Raiders</a><br>* <a target="_blank" href="http://redraiders.com/sports-red-raiders-football/2014-10-17/playing-red-raiders-all-richards-ever-wanted#.VEIxKIvF-wE">Playing for Red Raiders all that Richards ever wanted | Red Raiders</a><br>* <a target="_blank" href="http://redraiders.com/sports-red-raiders-football/2014-10-17/quick-hits-texas-tech-vs-kansas#.VEIxRIvF-wE">Quick Hits: Texas Tech vs. Kansas | Red Raiders</a> <br>* <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/big12/post/_/id/91081/big-12-true-freshman-power-rankings-5" target="_blank">Big 12 true freshman power rankings - Big 12 Blog - ESPN</a><br>* <a href="http://ttured.blogspot.com/2014/10/new-ttu-campus-pictures-10172014.html" target="_blank">Totally Texas Tech: New TTU Campus Pictures - 10/17/2014</a><br>* <a href="http://www.foxsports.com/southwest/story/texas-tech-s-tubby-smith-dresses-as-shaft-crash-motorcycle-at-midnight-madness-101814" target="_blank">Texas Tech's Tubby Smith dresses as Shaft, crashes motorcycle at Midnight Madness event | FOX Sports</a>: Mike is going to have a write-up on last night's event, but Tubby is okay and he asked if he scratched the floor.<br>* <a href="http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/college-sports/texas-tech-red-raiders/20141018-texas-tech-vs.-kansas-everything-you-need-to-know-including-previews-predictions-analysis.ece" target="_blank">Texas Tech vs. Kansas: Everything you need to know, including previews, predictions, analysis | Dallas Morning News</a><br>* <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/big12/post/_/id/91006/big-12-week-8-predictions" target="_blank">Big 12 Week 8 predictions - Big 12 Blog - ESPN</a><br>* <a href="http://www.rockchalktalk.com/kansas-jayhawk-football-2014/2014/10/17/6993951/behind-enemy-lines-q-a-with-viva-the-matadors" target="_blank">Behind Enemy Lines: Q&A with Viva The Matadors - Rock Chalk Talk</a><br>* <a href="http://www.rockchalktalk.com/2014/10/17/6991629/kansas-texas-tech-preview" target="_blank">Texas Tech Preview - Rock Chalk Talk</a></p>
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https://www.vivathematadors.com/2014/10/18/6997895/kansas-vs-texas-tech-game-time-tv-streaming-radio-morning-linksSeth C2014-10-17T19:00:02-05:002014-10-17T19:00:02-05:00Talking Kansas vs. Texas Tech with Rock Chalk Talk
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<figcaption>Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>We welcome misterbrain from Rock Chalk Talk talk about the game this weekend and the state of the Kansas football program.</p> <p><i>Much thanks to misterbrain over at Rock Chalk Talk for taking the time to answer some questions about the Kansas Jayhawks.</i></p>
<p><i><b>Seth: </b>Is it an incorrect assumption to think that it is a huge sigh of relief that Clint Bowen is now in charge and Charlie Weis is now in Kansas' rear view mirror? What's the general mood of the Jayhawk faithful?</i><br> <br><b>misterbrain: </b>I'd say we are cautiously optimistic at this point. The big fear is that Bowen will get lucky a couple times, get a win or two, but otherwise not really do anything, but still somehow get the long-term job.</p>
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<p>It appeared that week 1 was about getting the reins of the program, and week 2 allowed him to alter the gameplan (although maybe it was more letting Reagan change up the offense?). Either way, his early returns are encouraging, but so are the rumors that the coaching search is still continuing.</p>
<p><i><b>Seth: </b>Since we're just learning a bit about Bowen, talk a bit about his offensive and defensive philosophy and what might e different than when Weis was running the show.</i><br> <br><b>misterbrain: </b>The defensive philosophy is exactly what we saw under Weis since Bowen was in charge of the defensive unit. I think the main change we are seeing is that Reagan is free to run his system, and Bowen has encouraged him to find something that works.</p>
<p>Weis was big on saying he brought in Reagan to run the offense for him, but since the system didn't really change much from when Charlie was in charge, it was obvious that the Weis "offensive genius" was still at work. The main issue was that Weis seemed set in a huge complicated system that changed from week to week, and he kept trying to cram in players that didn't fit.</p>
<p>As we saw last week, the new direction seems to be finding something that works and then running it into the ground.</p>
<p><i><b>Seth: </b>Corey Avery has been a huge surprise for Kansas, especially as a true freshman, talk a bit about his impact and a couple of additional key players to watch on offense.</i><br> <br><b>misterbrain: </b>The funny thing about Avery is that he really wouldn't have had a chance this year without the injuries to Brandon Bourbon and Taylor Cox late in the preseason. Losing two key members of an extremely deep backfield meant that the new guys, Avery and De'Andre Mann, had to immediately step up. And they sure have done a great job of it so far, even when the offensive line hasn't given them much help.</p>
<p>Honestly, while Tony Pierson is our most dynamic player, and the receiving corps is solid, the player to watch this week will be QB Michael Cummings. He got the start last week, and while I expect him to build on a solid performance, he will need to perform better in crunch time if the Jayhawks hope to win.</p>
<p><i><b>Seth: </b>The Jayhawks did a fantastic job last week of slowing down Oklahoma State offensively, what was the key to stopping Oklahoma State and would it be a safe assumption that we'll see quite a bit of the same philosophy this week?</i><br> <br><b>misterbrain: </b>Honestly, it seemed to me that nothing really changed from the first to second half of the game, except that Oklahoma State couldn't get anything to work quite as well. The offensive line just couldn't get the holes quite as big, the receivers just weren't able to pull in the big catches when needed.</p>
<p>I think the general approach will be the same, with a focus on stopping the run first, and letting the secondary handle passing plays unless/until it becomes apparent that they need help. It seems to have served us fairly well recently, so I don't expect it to change at this point.</p>
<p><i><b>Seth: </b>Who are some players to watch on the defensive side of the ball?</i></p>
<p><b>misterbrain: </b>The name you have probably already heard is Ben Heeney, but the big name to watch is Michael Reynolds, as he has been the spark plug for the pass rush.</p>
<p>As usual, you'll want to keep an eye out for Jake Love at the linebacker spot, and Isaiah Johnson, JaCorey Shepherd and Dexter McDonald in the secondary.</p>
<p><i><b>Seth:</b> I asked this question last week to the West Virginia guys and since I've never been to Lawrence, I'd like your two cents, especially considering that going to Allen Fieldhouse is on my bucketlist. Presume that I get into town on Thursday night, which means that I have all day Friday and the game is on Saturday. What's my agenda for the perfect weekend in Lawrence?</i><br> <br><b>misterbrain: </b>Given that you have an entire Friday to kill, I think the most important thing is to make sure you get in touch with a local before you go that can keep you apprised of all the special events happening that weekend. There are tons of unique events that happen all around campus, even on Thursday nights.<br>As for places you have to go, a tour of Allen Fieldhouse is obviously a must, and the earlier you get it in the better. It is easy to lose track of time in there, and you want to save plenty of time for both the fieldhouse and the attached Booth Hall of Athletics, which has tons of memorabilia that is intriguing to fans in general.</p>
<p>After that, the main attractions are taking in some of the scenery. My personal favorite spot is to head up to the big bay windows in Mrs. E's dining hall, where you can see the entire campus laid out. Another spot is on the other side of campus, on the ninth floor of The Oread (where you can grab a drink too). In between, don't forget to chill out on Wescoe Beach, where there is pretty much always something going on. After all that, head down to Mass Street to get some food, and check out one of the many bars or clubs right in the area</p>
<p>As for Saturday, tailgating is the way to go. Your best bet for a good time is to bring beer and join one of the many frat house tailgates, but you could also head to a nearby bar like the Wheel if that's more your scene. If you aren't going in to the game, then either Free State Brewing Company or 23rd Street Brewery are ideal places to watch the game, if you can get a seat.</p>
<p>After the game, if you are sticking around for a while, Louise's is a good place to go for drinks, and there are plenty of places to go for good food.</p>
<p>Keep in mind I haven't been back to campus in about 7 years, so this is not only the best of my memories, but I also enlisted the help of some who are still in the area. Hope it helps on your next trip up here.</p>
<p><i>Thanks again to misterbrain for answering some questions, you can find his twitter handle <a target="_blank" href="http://twitter.com/mister__brain">@mister__brain</a>, we very much appreciate his time.</i></p>
https://www.vivathematadors.com/2014/10/17/6995155/talking-kansas-vs-texas-tech-with-misterbrain-from-rock-chalk-talkSeth C2014-10-17T12:00:03-05:002014-10-17T12:00:03-05:00Weekly Conversation: Getting kicked in the junk
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<img alt="Gumdrop Meets Spider" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_nlADRFKfJHSv8dyQG3MluZsqSk=/0x490:3020x2503/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/42078694/9457387671_67868c39e3_o.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Gumdrop Meets Spider | NASA</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Seth and Travis talk about getting kicked in the junk, the future of the defense and hiking trails.</p> <p><b>Seth: </b>Well, can I kick you in the privates one more time or perhaps several more times?</p>
<p><b>Travis:</b> I haven't been that disappointed or upset after a loss in a long, long time. It was one of those games when you wake up on Sunday morning, stretch out your arms and feel happy until suddenly remembering the game and the way they lost. Then the rest of the day is ruint. For 56 or 57 minutes it felt like one of those turning points and that things were coming together. The defense played well until the last few minutes, Webb was serviceable and some of the younger guys were incredibly fun to watch. I had already planned out all the great stories I could write and I was thinking about how fun the week would be for everybody. Then the wheels fell off. It was just terrible so I imagine it was pretty tough for those guys inside the locker room.</p>
<p>Along those lines, do you think there is a danger of Kingsbury losing control of the team after a setback like that?</p>
<div class="pullquote">and then I started to go down that path of, "uh, oh," and I never looked back. <span>-Seth on getting kicked in the junk</span>
</div>
<p><b>Seth:</b> Yeah, I was thinking about all of the great things and then I started thinking that WVU was capable of coming back from two scores pretty easily and then I started to go down that path of, "uh, oh," and I never looked back.</p>
<p>I suppose that's a possibility that Kingsbury could lose the room, but I keep going back to the idea that worse things have happened to more experienced coaches. In this week's The Huddle, I'm writing about how coaches who have had success sometimes lose game, but if they are good coaches and the fans and the program give the coaches and administrators some time, then you'll be rewarded. The tough thing is how much time is enough and if you have the right head coach. For me, I'm willing to bend over backwards for Kingsbury and give him as much time as he needs.</p>
<p>I wrote about how West Virginia and Dana Holgorsen were kings of the world after winning 10 games in 2011 and then that downward spiral started to happen and last year resulted in a 4-8 season that was disappointing by all accounts and they appear to have turned the corner. Gary Patterson at TCU, who has been in control of that program for 14 years or so, had a 7-6 and a 4-8 record in 2012 and 2013 before looking like world beaters this year and taking Baylor to the wire. So yeah, I suppose that you can start to lose a room, but I think the other part of it is that Texas Tech fans don't know how to react when losing, which is a good thing. Like taking a photograph and not knowing what to do with your hands. We just don't know what to do with ourselves.</p>
<p>The toughest thing to do is to ride out the storm.</p>
<p>When Mike Smith was hired as the defensive coordinator, Kingsbury made it clear that Smith was the interim defensive coordinator. I'm assuming that Kingsbury wants to see how the season plays out and then go from there. Either way, I expect Smith to be part of this program, but what would you prefer that Kingsbury do in the offseason regarding the defensive coordinator position?</p>
<p><b>Travis:</b> I think for the sake of continuity and because I really like what I've seen so far, Smith should get a shot (barring a complete meltdown going forward which seems unlikely). He seems to bring the kind of emotion that's been missing since Ruffin left. But I would also be open to bringing in some "grey/gray hairs" in the offseason which has been suggested by some. Guys that can teach the young staff about some of the extra necessities beyond just X's and O's.</p>
<p>Penalties seem to continually be a problem for this team but do you ever wonder if referees get to a point where a teams reputation precedes them? I know calls are missed in every game, but I've seen some pretty glaring mistakes recently and I wonder if it's more human error than anything nefarious. There was a PI last week against that was fortunately called, but the replay showed the Umpire standing directly in front of the play with the WVU player tackling the Tech receiver and he didn't even reach for his flag. Luckily several other flags were thrown by others but I just thought it was odd that the Umpire was going to let it go. At some point you have to wonder if non-intended biases start to play a role. "Well, this is Texas Tech, so..."</p>
<p><b>Seth:</b> Oh, I definitely thing there is some sort of self-perpetuating thing going on with the penalties, but generally speaking, I think most of the issues are pretty much self-inflicted. I also think that the penalty thing goes the other way, like Bill Snyder and K-State have maybe built up such a reputation that they get the benefit of the doubt.</p>
<p>I've got four questions/things for you.</p>
<p>1. A few weeks ago you mentioned that you were reading lots of books while running trails. I grew increasingly jealous of you as I live in a part of the world where there just aren't a lot of hiking trails. Oh sure, there are some in Dallas, but it's not like we live in Colorado where you can walk down the street and find a hiking trail. Anyway, I have a client that bought 300+ acres close to where I live and I just flat out asked him if he minded if I could hike on his property. Just me walking and hiking and he said he'd love to see the property be walked. I couldn't be happier that I now have a 300+ acre place to go hike and once I get my bearings, be able to take Fitsum.</p>
<p>2. I had <a href="http://emawdio.com/" target="_blank">Grant Thome at EMAWdio</a> ask me if I thought it would be better if Kingsbury slowed down just a bit. In terms of pace of play, <a href="http://%20http://cfbmatrix.com/witness-evolution/" target="_blank">Texas Tech is still one of the fastest teams in the nation 4th in the nation</a>. This isn't a case where Texas Tech is efficient in terms of scoring, so would you maybe slow some things down if you were Kingsbury, maybe let Webb take a better look at the defense, or would you continue to try to push the pace.</p>
<p>3. What will be the key to starting beating Kansas on Saturday and will you quit the internet if Texas Tech loses?</p>
<p>4. Are you writing about the Spurs this year and if so, where?</p>
<p><b>Travis:</b> 1. Trails are great and Fitsum will have so much fun. I took Cade to Friedrich Park which is just a mile or two from our house before the UTEP game. It's really incredible because there are some really steep inclines and rocks to get over, but there are some easy paths as well. A few minutes into the walk he said "Oh, look at that bench. It woulda been a great place to sit and eat a sandwich if somebody woulda brought a sandwich."</p>
<p>I haven't taken him again.</p>
<p>2. Yes, I think it would be a great idea to slow down a bit. The frenetic pace wasn't paying dividends. I understand the concept, and someday it might, but not right now. The offensive personnel isn't seasoned or disciplined enough to make it work.</p>
<p>3. Keys to Kansas are the same. Control the ball and allow the thin defense time to rest. I think if they can do that then they'll be fine.</p>
<p>4. Yes, I should be writing about the Spurs again this year but probably not in the same capacity. I haven't told many people but I wrote a book over the summer about the Spurs championship season and my experience covering them as a novice reporter. I spent a ton of time on it and wanted to donate proceeds from its sale to the American Cancer Society in honor of Stuart Scott, <span>Craig Sager</span> and my cousin who has been recently diagnosed. I really, really, poured my heart and soul into it and the finished product was (and is) something I'm proud of.</p>
<div class="pullquote">So the last step was to get the Spurs consent. In August I took it to the Spurs to get their approval. I totally believed it was all a formality. There was no way they'd turn something down that was so obviously an homage to their championship season!
<p>Aaannnd.... they promptly turned down my request. <span>-Travis on getting kicked in the junk</span></p>
</div>
<p>I submitted it to several publishers and had a couple that were interested. My dream of publication was coming true!</p>
<p>So the last step was to get the Spurs consent. In August I took it to the Spurs to get their approval. I totally believed it was all a formality. There was no way they'd turn something down that was so obviously an homage to their championship season!</p>
<p>Aaannnd.... they promptly turned down my request.</p>
<p>It was devastating. I was completely deflated. I worked so long and hard and had it teed up and ready to go, and the organization I spent so much time lauding and fawning over killed it. Legally I could've published the book but I would've had my credentials forever revoked and would receive no support from them in marketing. No radio show or publication would've allowed me to promote the book out of fear of repercussion from the Spurs. The book was dead. My heart was ripped out.</p>
<p>It really took the wind out of my sails for several weeks. And anyone that wonders why the Spurs don't get more national attention should know--this is exactly the way the Spurs want it. The organization does not want attention, at all.</p>
<p>But, JR Wilco, the editor at Pounding the Rock has been really incredible during the process and has been unbelievably supportive. He would've stood behind me if I published the book and he's helped me in the last few weeks in preparing it for possible publication at SB Nation. So, long story short, my account of the season lives on and could be published as an SBN long form piece soon. But, we'll see. There are lots of things to work out.</p>
<p>So I have a ton of emotions from the ordeal-- I'm still so proud of the organization for their accomplishment but I am extremely bitter at the same time. I might go to a few games, but definitely won't cover them with the same fervor as I did last season. I still have my credentials with PtR but have no designs or commitment to attend a single game. It makes me sad to think about.</p>
<p>So, what do you see happening against Kansas? Can we please have some confetti or Kenny Powers again?</p>
<p><b>Seth:</b> A 10 point win for the good guys. It won't be pretty, but it's a helluva a lot better than a loss.</p>
<p><b>Travis:</b> I'll take it.</p>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Kenny Powers" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/uqvW7G2Un6s7E0YpL9JP9QR4WoI=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2363214/giphy.0.gif">
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https://www.vivathematadors.com/2014/10/17/6988963/weekly-conversationSeth CTravis Hale2014-10-17T09:00:02-05:002014-10-17T09:00:02-05:00The Huddle: Kansas vs. Texas Tech
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/9E57FoSz0oJsX_hQFiTeZ6MMZ3I=/0x220:4000x2887/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/42092926/20141011_pjc_aj7_122.JPG.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>We take a close look at this weekend's game between the Kansas Jayhawks and Texas Tech Red Raiders, complete with thoughts on being patient with the coaching staffs, players to watch for Kansas, keys to the game and Bruce Lee GIF's.</p> <p><b>1-11. 4-8. 4-8. 7-6.</b> That’s the records of California, TCU and West Virginia last year. The toughest thing to do in a year like 2014 is stay positive. I’ve been down this road before and to be honest, I’ve been pretty lucky as a blogger to think that since 2006, when I started this thing, Texas Tech has only had 1 losing season and this may be the second. That’s a pretty good run, all things considered.</p>
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<td style="color: #ffffff;" align="center"><b>Game Information</b></td>
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<center> <b>Kansas <br> vs.<br>Texas Tech</b><br> </center> <img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/1680889/Wingding_-_stopwatch.png" height="20"><b> When:</b> October 18, 2014 at 2:30 pm<br> <img src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/1263825/Wingding_-_compass.png" height="20"><b> Where:</b> Jones AT&T Stadium | Lubbock, TX<br> <img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/2365719/Wingding_-_movies.png" height="20"><b> Watch:</b> FSN<br> <img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/1263843/Wingding_-_wrench.png" height="20"><b> Key Injuries:</b> <span>Tony Morales</span>, Jah’Shawn Johnson, <span>Demetrius Alston</span>
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<p>I was mentioning to someone over email that I think I’ve been a pretty positive person when it comes to covering Texas Tech. By no means perfect, but generally positive overall. It took me three years. Yes, three years, to finally be fed up with Tommy Tuberville. Whatever I wrote wasn’t me pretending, it was just the nature of who I was/am and that it sure does make my life a bit easier thinking about how things can get better. Not worse.</p>
<p>I’ve seen comments about how some of you are disappointed in believing the offseason hype of this team. That you read too much into preseason magazines and blogs, like this one, and I hope you never feel bad about believing that something good is going to happen. That’s the great thing about sports. Things change. They can change pretty quickly.</p>
<p>I thought that the records of those three programs was pretty telling of a number of different things. Sonny Dykes’ initial year at Cal was an unmitigated disaster. You could think that he obviously had a lot of things to clean up and this isn’t to say that Dykes has completely turned it around, but he seemingly has Cal pointed in the right direction.</p>
<p>You could look at TCU as a program that had a ton of things to correct. An offseason of drug issues with the team and it seemed as if the 2013 season for TCU was never going to end. Close loses littered through that season, Kansas State, Baylor, West Virginia and Oklahoma gave TCU some hope heading into the 2014 season. It’s sometimes hard to believe that an established coach and an established program could allow a losing season to happen, but these sorts of things happen to good program.</p>
<p>With West Virginia, Holgorsen started with immediate success, winning 11 games, but slipping pretty quickly, winning only 7 games and then 4 last year. Holgorsen stuck with the program for the most part, although there was certainly some issues with maintaining that consistency at the defensive coordinator position. I don’t know that Holgorsen has it all figured out, but I know that he’s recruiting his tail off at West Virginia and has been for a couple of years. It took him time to figure things out after Bill Stewart left. Probably took him some time to be a head coach.</p>
<p>The last record is one of Dan Mullen at Mississippi State. If you would have asked me, I never would have guessed that this was Mullen’s 6th year and a terrific year at that. His team is 6-0 and one of the top 4 teams in the country, especially after not even being ranked all year. Mullen’s tenure at MSU has been okay, finishing 5-7, 9-4, 7-6, 7-6 and 8-5 in 2013. You don’t get the idea that he has built some huge power, but that appears to be the case this year. It took 6 years for all of it to fall together. There’s no doubt that 6 years is a long time, but when it does happen, it can be pretty special.</p>
<p>In fact, I was emailed earlier this week and there are other forums out there that is calling for the firing of the entire coaching staff. Completely ticked off about the current state of things. The key takeaway is that there isn’t a soul that’s happy about the current state of things, but <a href="http://coachingsearch.247sports.com/Article/Mullen-Heres-my-take-on-fans-asking-for-coaching-changes-32079458" target="newwindow">Mullen makes it pretty clear that calling for firings</a> isn’t going to help anyone:</p>
<blockquote>"I remember last year, supposedly, I’m on the hot seat and I need to get run out of town. Now, ‘Never leave.’ You go from ‘Don’t ever leave us,’ to ‘We need to fire this bum,’ to ‘Don’t ever leave us.’ We put so much in, the coaches and players and families are so invested. Everybody wants to win. Everybody’s giving their best effort out there. Fans are entitled to their opinion, and they get that stuff and put that stuff out there, but they need to know I’ve never met a coach that’s not going to give everything he has. You should respect and appreciate how much everybody in every program puts in to what’s going on on the field."</blockquote>
<p>The one thing that a lot of these coaches have in common is that they were all given time to get things corrected. You sometimes have to weather stormy seas in order to get where you’re going. Of course, no one is asking for decades of mediocrity, but good can happen to coaches and programs that are patient (sometimes). This isn’t an absolute and I wouldn’t want to guarantee anything, but I believe pretty strongly that things will work out.</p>
<center><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/54869/dingbat.gif" height="20"></center>
<p><b>Uniform Tracker.</b> Because at the heart of it all, VTM is a fashion blog.</p>
<table style="width: auto; font-size: 14px; box-shadow: 5px 5px 5px #888888;" class="sbnu-legacy-content-table" align="center" border="1">
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<td style="color: #000000;" colspan="7" align="center"><b>Uniform Tracker</b></td>
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<td><b>Opponent</b></td>
<td><b>Helmet</b></td>
<td><b>Jersey</b></td>
<td><b>Pants</b></td>
<td><b>Result</b></td>
<td><b>Photo</b></td>
<td><b>Photo Credit</b></td>
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<td>Central Arkansas</td>
<td style="background-color: #000000; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #000000; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #000000; "></td>
<td>W, 42-35</td>
<td><a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/37767210/20140830_jcd_aj7_069.JPG.0_standard_305.0.jpg" target="newwindow"><img src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/37767210/20140830_jcd_aj7_069.JPG.0_standard_305.0.jpg" height="30"></a></td>
<td>Michael C. Johnson -<br>USA Today Sports</td>
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<tr>
<td>UTEP</td>
<td style="background-color: #000000; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #000000; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #FFFFFF; "></td>
<td>W, 42-35</td>
<td><a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/38138056/454839362.0_standard_305.0.jpg" target="newwindow"><img src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/38138056/454839362.0_standard_305.0.jpg" height="30"></a></td>
<td>John Weast</td>
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<td>Arkansas</td>
<td style="background-color: #000000; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #000000; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #808080; "></td>
<td>L, 49-28</td>
<td><a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/38916396/455398166.0_standard_305.0.jpg" target="newwindow"><img src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/38916396/455398166.0_standard_305.0.jpg" height="30"></a></td>
<td>John Weast</td>
</tr>
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<td>Oklahoma State **</td>
<td style="background-color: #E5E4E2; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #E5E4E2; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #E5E4E2; "></td>
<td>L, 45-35</td>
<td><a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/40107056/456114388.0_standard_249.0.jpg" target="newwindow"><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/40107056/456114388.0_standard_249.0.jpg" height="30"></a></td>
<td>Brett Deering</td>
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<tr>
<td>Kansas State</td>
<td style="background-color: #FFFFFF; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #FFFFFF; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #FFFFFF; "></td>
<td>L, 45-13</td>
<td><a href="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/41011020/20141004_ajw_as4_321.JPG.0_standard_249.0.jpg" target="newwindow"><img src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/41011020/20141004_ajw_as4_321.JPG.0_standard_249.0.jpg" height="30"></a></td>
<td>Scott Sewell</td>
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<td>West Virginia</td>
<td style="background-color: #FFFFFF; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #FFFFFF; "></td>
<td style="background-color: #FFFFFF; "></td>
<td>L, 37-34</td>
<td><a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/41740106/457071152.0_standard_249.0.jpg" target="newwindow"><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/41740106/457071152.0_standard_249.0.jpg" height="30"></a></td>
<td>John Weast</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p><i>* Click photos to embiggen.</i><br> <i>** The color intended to be depicted is ombré.</i></p>
<center><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/54869/dingbat.gif" height="20"></center>
<h4>
<img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/2297873/Wingding_-_pen.png" height="20"> Quotes</h4>
<p>It took me some time to find the quotes, but I did find where Kansas head coach <a href="http://sidearm.sites.s3.amazonaws.com/kuathletics.com/documents/2014/10/14/C_Bowen_101414.pdf?id=2377" target="newwindow">Clint Bowen spoke this week</a> about Texas Tech and wrapping up their loss to Oklahoma State. Up first, Bowen is asked about Texas Tech:</p>
<blockquote>Q. What scares you most about Tech? <br> COACH BOWEN: They run an offensive system that can put you in some stressful positions as a defense on that side of the ball. They've done a nice job developing a system that creates space for the players. They have good athletes at wide receiver. They have a good athlete at running back. They run the ball as much as they throw it. Throwing is probably what they do best. <br><br> But I think it's the space that they create, the way that they force you to defend the entire field. The quarterback makes a really good decisions. They don't take sacks. They have a great system in recognizing pressures and blitzes, and the kid gets it out of his hands, it's hard to hit the quarterback. So they get the ball out. But offensively, they're pretty tough on that part of it.</blockquote>
<p>Also asked and I thought was interesting that Bowen was asked why Texas Tech couldn’t finish games. This seems like a wasted question because, how would Bowen know?</p>
<blockquote>Q. Kliff Kingsbury has said they have struggled with finishing in games, is that what you see from them? <br> COACH BOWEN: Yeah, in each of these games, you take their last game against West Virginia, and right before the half, they drive all the way down there and end up throwing an interception and losing points. At the end that was a competitive game. Both teams were going back and forth at the end. West Virginia came up with the drive after they punted on that last one. Texas Tech had gotten down there close this morning driving to the point ending on 4th and 3. You know, I guess he knows better than I do what his team's got to do.</blockquote>
<p>As most of you know, Bowen took over for the fired Charlie Weis and is also an alum and he was asked about handling the day-to-day things.</p>
<blockquote>Q. You talked about the day-to-day and all that stuff. But when you took this thing over, did you think in advance that this thing has gone as you hoped it would have? In terms of just the progress and moving forward, is that what you thought at all? <br> COACH BOWEN: When we did take it over, the first thing I felt that this team needed was an identity. We needed something, as I said to our guys, what are we going to be known for? When people leave the stadium after watching us play, what are they going to say about us? What is going to be the Kansas football identity? And I believe our players have bought into what we talked about. Are we there yet? No. We're still a long ways away. But in terms of creating a product on the field that we know each and every week is what Kansas football is going to represent, that's where we're headed. That is part of what I keep talking about. When you leave, I won't be able to say this. Those guys played extremely hard. They're going to fight until the end of the game. They're going to be tough. Can't win football games without being physical and being tough. At the same time, they look like they know what they're doing. They're smart. They're don't beat themselves. That's got to be our trademark.</blockquote>
<p>And last week, Kansas was in that Oklahoma State game, up until the end and is doing whatever he can to get his team excited to play:</p>
<blockquote>Q. Going into that fourth quarter, the team gathered and everybody was jumping up and down and hollering and screaming. What was going through your mind? Was there anything that you were thinking at that time? <br> COACH BOWEN: Yeah, there was. The big thing that I thought was that was them. That was the players only. I coached it, organized it. Someone didn't tell them to do it. It was the players going together on their own. That's something that we talked about earlier, and what we talked about with these players is we are our team. Nothing is more important than our team. If we're going to be good, you guys are going to have to learn to play together, stay together, and truly care about one another. So to see those guys when things got exciting to group up on their own, get excited on their own and start to take some ownership, it kind of reinforced some of the things that we've been talking about that maybe were starting to take place.</blockquote>
<center><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/54869/dingbat.gif" height="20"></center>
<h4>
<img src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/3222611/Wingding_-_chart.png" height="20"> Stats</h4>
<table class="sbnu-legacy-content-table" style="width: auto; font-size: 14px; box-shadow: 5px 5px 5px #888888;" align="right" border="1">
<tbody>
<tr class="tableizer-firstrow">
<th>Stat</th> <th><img src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/78798/Kansas_Logo.gif" height="40"></th> <th><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/156689/TexasTechLogo.gif" height="40"></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Total Offense</b></td>
<td>331.8 (112)</td>
<td>486.2 (24)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Rushing Offense</b></td>
<td>155.0 (78)</td>
<td>148.7 (83)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Passing Offense</b></td>
<td>176.8 (107)</td>
<td>337.5 (10)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Scoring Offense</b></td>
<td>15.8 (120)</td>
<td>30.3 (64)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Total Defense</b></td>
<td>395.3 (68)</td>
<td>483.7 (111)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Rushing Defense</b></td>
<td>172.7 (74)</td>
<td>256.0 (119)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Passing Defense</b></td>
<td>222.7 (53)</td>
<td>227.7 (59)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Scoring Defense</b></td>
<td>27.0 (73)</td>
<td>39.5 (119)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Turnover Margin</b></td>
<td>0.67 (23)</td>
<td>-1.33 (118)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>3rd Down % Off.</b></td>
<td>32.1% (112)</td>
<td>45.1% (34)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>3rd Down % Def.</b></td>
<td>37.6% (58)</td>
<td>45.8% (102)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Yds/Play Def.</b></td>
<td>5.74 (82)</td>
<td>5.79 (86)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Texas Tech has the offensive advantage here, and it's fairly significant in most aspects. Kansas' problems have been an inability to score adn as bad as you think that the Texas Tech offense has been, it has been really tough for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rockchalktalk.com/">Jayhawks</a> to put the ball into the endzone.</p>
<p>Defensively, Kansas has better numbers, although I tend to think that a large part of KU's success might be dependent upon the offense being able to eat up large chunks of time. Kansas has about 75 fewer defensive plays and if you multiply that by 5 yards a play, you make up the difference pretty easily between what Texas Tech does and what Kansas does. Kansas is slightly better, but it's not by much.</p>
<p>Still, Kansas has been in a handful of games, the Texas game really being the biggest loss thus far, losing by 23 and being shut out. I think a large part of Kansas' success, that's more apparent than Texas Tech is their ability to succeed on third downs. Webb is certainly going to have to be more effective this week than he has been, and generally speaking, he's been pretty good on third downs, but obviously not good enough.</p>
<h4>
<img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/1263810/Wingding_-_caption.png" height="20"> Tweets</h4>
<p>We all have to do our part, so . . . #SorryNotSorry</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p>Suns up Guns up! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RedRaiders?src=hash">#RedRaiders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATMO?src=hash">#ATMO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TexasTech?src=hash">#TexasTech</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GameDay?src=hash">#GameDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gamedaywaffles?src=hash">#gamedaywaffles</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThrowWafflesAtYourKids?src=hash">#ThrowWafflesAtYourKids</a> <a href="https://t.co/YSXEnRp6FY">https://t.co/YSXEnRp6FY</a></p>
— Travis Hale (@SARR_SBN) <a href="https://twitter.com/SARR_SBN/status/520382101804580864">October 10, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<p>Looks like good times!</p>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>The kids at the CDRC had fun today with some of their favorite <a href="https://twitter.com/TTU_WreckEm">@TTU_WreckEm</a> football players! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WreckEm?src=hash">#WreckEm</a> <a href="http://t.co/e0XojD2EMQ">pic.twitter.com/e0XojD2EMQ</a></p>
— Texas Tech SAAC (@TexasTechSAAC) <a href="https://twitter.com/TexasTechSAAC/status/522846803645833216">October 16, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<p>Pretty cool how the stadium has changed.</p>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Check out this photo of <a href="https://twitter.com/TexasTech">@TexasTech</a> players warming up prior to the homecoming game in 1949! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SupportTradition?src=hash">#SupportTradition</a> <a href="http://t.co/ADFPqBJpth">pic.twitter.com/ADFPqBJpth</a></p>
— TexasTechAlumniAssoc (@TTUAlumniAssoc) <a href="https://twitter.com/TTUAlumniAssoc/status/522491461153988609">October 15, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<p>Don’t forget about this event tonight!</p>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>We are giving away $70,000 in cash prizes at Showtime this Friday at 7:30 p.m. in the United Supermarkets Arena. <a href="http://t.co/X6HEdRqeNy">pic.twitter.com/X6HEdRqeNy</a></p>
— Texas Tech Athletics (@TechAthletics) <a href="https://twitter.com/TechAthletics/status/522483783740948480">October 15, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<center><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/54869/dingbat.gif" height="20"></center>
<h4>
<img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/1088765/Five.jpg" height="75" align="left">Five Things</h4>
<p><b><u>1. Three Players to Watch on Offense for Kansas.</u></b></p>
<p><b>1) RB Corey Avery (5-10/195):</b> Avery was actually a Texas Tech target for a bit, but Texas Tech went with a couple of other running backs. Still, Avery has been nothing short of fantastic with Kansas, toting the rock 81 times for 348 yards and 3 touchdowns. Avery went to Skyline and was really effective there. Avery is a tough runner and he also has spped to burn. Not the fastest guy, but he's plenty fast.</p>
<p><b>2) RB Tony Pierson (5-10/175):</b> From afar, it seems like Pierson has been a man without a position. A receiver a running back. It seems like Pierson really should just be a guy that gets the ball as much as possible. He's averaging 8 yards a rush and 12 yards a catch, but he only has 30 touches for the entire year.</p>
<p><b>3) TE Jimmay Mundine (6-2/240):</b> Mundine is one of those tight ends that might not really be a tight end. Maybe more of a running back that plays tight end. I guess I would say that Mundine really doesn't have a ton of height, but he can be effective. Mundine has 16 catches on the year for 212 yards. Also, if you recall, Mundine caught a touchdown against Texas Tech, a seam up the middle with a pretty nice pass.</p>
<p><b><u>2. Three Players to Watch on Defense for West Virginia.</u></b></p>
<p><b>1) LB Ben Heeney (6-0/230):</b> Heeney would pretty much play anywhere last year, linking up in the middle or playing a slot receiver or coverage. Heeney is a downhill guy and he makes a ton of plays. I actually just love his ability and think he's a terrific linebacker. Heeney already has 63 tackles on the year. Yeah. I thnk he intercepted Mayfield last year if I remember correctly.</p>
<p><b>2) CB Dexter McDonald (6-1/205):</b> McDonald is a bigger cornerback and this could prove to be problematic for Texas Tech as McDonald could really cause some issues for the wide recievers that seem to have issues being jammed at the lien of scrimmage. McDonald has 4 passes broken up and 2 interceptions on the year.</p>
<p><b>3) S <span>Isaiah Johnson</span> (6-1/210):</b> Pretty nice safety for Kansas as he has 37 tackles right now and an interception. Johnson had 5 interceptions last year and he was really an impact player for the Jayhawks.</p>
<p><b><u>3. Three Keys to the Game.</u></b></p>
<p><b>1) More of DeAndre.</b> In two of Kansas' losses, Duke and West Virginia, those two teams ran for 255 and 331 yards. I loved what <span>DeAndre Washington</span> did last week and I very much want to see Kingsbury and Morris continue to just run and run Washington and just see what happens. I'd love to see Washington with 175 yards on Saturday.</p>
<p><b>2) When the Quarterback Struggles.</b> When the quarterback struggles then Kansas typically struggles. Montrell Cozart played most of the year, but was replaced by Michael Cummings against Oklahoma State. Texas Tech will probably get Cummings and he was actually pretty good last week, passing for 288 yards. Still, Kansas worst days are ones where the quarterback struggles. It would nice if Cummings repeated his performance against West Virginia and not the one from Oklahoma State. And in case you were curious, Cozart or Cummings are neither really rushing quarterbacks as they have rushed for a total of 66 yards in 6 games.</p>
<p><b>3) Let's Get that Special Teams Touchdown.</b> Both West Virginia and Oklahoma State had a kickoff returned for a touchdown and these were pretty close games. It would be so sweet to have a special teams touchdown. I promised one last week and the Texas Tech special teams is going to have to be great. I have a feeling it could be that close.</p>
<p><b><u>4. Two Reasons Why Texas Tech Will Win.</u></b></p>
<p><img src="http://31.media.tumblr.com/28601fce603ad7128c223a571866d35f/tumblr_mocz4kbRCU1svxaato1_400.gif" align="right"></p>
<p><b>1) Take a Hit.</b></p>
<p>Texas Tech took an awful hit last week at the hands of a game-winning 55 yard field goal from West Virginia. Now more than ever, Texas Tech and the entire team and coaching staff need to take that hit and look straight where it came from be ready to come back again. I have to believe that the folks that run this thing have as much will and desire and determination to make sure that they'll get back up off the mat and continue to fight. I still have to believe that Texas Tech and Kingsbury still has that fight. The defense has shown an ability, despite all of what has happened to them this year, another defensive coordinator and ton of yards allowed. They’re making progress. They’re taking that hit and looking right back again.</p>
<p><b>2) Move Like Water.</b></p>
<center><img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2363880/Bruce_Lee_1.0.gif"></center> <center><img src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2363878/Bruce_Lee_2.0.gif"></center>
<p>Yeah, I really needed to channel my inner Bruce Lee and maybe the team does as well. I don’t really have a clue who or what to blame this on or give credit or whatever, but the offense in the first half of Saturday was like water. It flowed where the West Virginia defense was not. Kingsbury said after the game that the offense had a terrible time adjusting to man coverage and couldn’t get going in the second half. <span>Davis Webb</span> said that he stopped making the audibles that he was making in the first half. No matter what, this offense needs to flow like water, if the receivers are being jammed, then there’s a handful of ways for the receivers to get open and the offensive line is going to have to do their part. The swim rip or the stutter move. Watch those receivers if they are being jammed. Get your hands up ready to make sure that defensive back can’t get your hands on you. Be like water.</p>
<p><b><u>5. Two Reasons Why Texas Tech Will Lose.</u></b></p>
<p><b>1) Slow the Ball Down.</b> Seems like Kansas would have really nice opportunity to slow the game down. Like really slow it down in order to have a terrific opportunity to make Texas Tech a bit nervous and maybe force some things that Texas Tech isn't all that comfortable doing. Run Avery and <span>De'Andre Mann</span> and Pierson to the point that the Texas Tech defense just can't slow the Jayhawks down. That worries me more than anything, not giving the Texas Tech offense enough opportunities to break out of their inconsistencies to score some points.</p>
<p><b>2) Key Playmakers.</b> The thing that I dislike about this matchup is that Kansas has some good sized cornerbacks and I just think that Heeney is really good at what he does, which is make plays. Bigger cornerbacks and a rangy linebacker seem like a bad thing for Texas Tech. The worst thing is the slow pace of Kansas. That's the biggest thing.</p>
https://www.vivathematadors.com/2014/10/17/6993443/the-huddle-kansas-jayhawks-vs-texas-tech-red-raidersSeth C