—
Human‑style breakdown: Why this ranking matters, and what it means for Texas Tech
1. FPI in simple terms
The Football Power Index, or FPI, is ESPN’s analytic tool projecting how teams will fare based on talent, coaching, schedule, and historical performance. Being at No. 35 suggests Tech is viewed as solidly above average—likely an 8-win season—but not yet in elite territory .
—
2. Compare expectations vs. reality
Nationally: No. 35 feels underwhelming for a program with high aspirations.
Within the Big 12: Sitting 7th paints a picture of a mid‑tier Big 12 team, which arguably shouldn’t be the case.
Texas Tech has talent, resources, a high‑octane offense, and a red-hot fan base. By comparison, ranking behind teams like Kansas, BYU, TCU, Baylor? That rank cuts deep .
—
3. Transfer portal boost
The offseason saw several key transfers reinvigorate Lubbock’s roster. FPI reflects this, acknowledging a rise—Tech jumped nine spots to No. 35 from 44 in earlier projections . Still, expectations for a top‑25 breakthrough haven’t been fully met.
—
4. Big 12: A battleground
The Big 12 is more chaotic than ever—a gauntlet of balanced, dangerous teams. Here’s the current (preseason) FPI snapshot:
1. Kansas State
2. Arizona State
3. BYU
4. Kansas
5. TCU
6. Baylor
7. Texas Tech
…
If Tech wants to finish in the top half, they need to outperform several squads expected to be stronger on paper.
—
5. The “ 8‑win season ” narrative
An 8–4 season is respectable but not blockbuster. FPI estimates around eight wins for Texas Tech . That’s good, but with McGuire’s fourth year, an explosive offense, and a revamped defense, fans are dreaming bigger: 10 wins, a conference title, a CFP run.
—
6. Coach McGuire’s challenge
Head coach Joey McGuire is under pressure to complete the narrative. With investments in facilities, recruitment, and coaching staff, Tech fans expect results. They want to see the Red Raiders not just exceed FPI’s prediction—but blow past it.
—
7. Why this ranking will light a fire
Mid‑tier labels spark motivation. The players, staff, and fan base see being “just seventh in the league” as an insult. That collective chip on the shoulder could galvanize the team toward:
WWU Runs — Weekly “Win the war” mentality
Big Game Breakouts — Beating a ranked opponent would be seismic
Heated Rivalries — Take down Baylor, TCU, Kansas State in key moments
—
8. Watchlist: turning FPI into fuel
Here’s how Tech can use this ranking as motivation:
Embrace the underdog tag. It’s easier to surprise when expectations are low.
Emphasize the portal additions. Integrating fresh talent seamlessly can unlock potential.
Attack the schedule. A few big non‑conference wins would build momentum early.
Defend the rank. If Tech finishes top‑25, the early-season slight looks silly.
—
9. How fans can rally
You—TikTokers, Redditors, Lubbock locals—can stoke the fire:
Post memes under #LubbockRises
Start threads comparing Texas Tech’s offense to last year’s FPI projections
Host watch parties for early games to generate hype
Share your rankings: “Tech finishes No. 22, who’s with me?”
—
10. The bigger story
This isn’t just about being No. 35. It’s about showing:
Fortitude: Can Tech withstand early-season surprises?
Consistency: Will Joey McGuire’s fourth year flip expectations into reality?
Trust: Will fans believe the team can punch above its weight—and help lift it?
—
Final take
Texas Tech’s preseason No. 35 FPI ranking is both a reality check and a rally cry. It doesn’t define the season—and it shouldn’t. With energized fans, strategic coaching, and talent on both sides of the ball, the Red Raiders are in prime position to rewrite the narrative: mid‑tier no more, national contender next.
—
Engage with this:
What’s your bold end‑of‑season prediction?
Which
game matters most?
Who steps up this year—QB? Defense? Special teams?
Let’s pack the comments with predictions, hype, and Texas Tech pride. #WTTR
