GRASPING AT DIGNITY...DEFENDING MY ANALYSIS

By mark rogers
November 3, 2008

This is me trying to salvage some shred of dignity after predicting another Texas Tech loss...here is something I predicted last week during my Texas/Texas Tech analysis, and I quote:

"If Tech's defense can keep the big play receivers of Texas in front of them and force third-and-longs (which they have been great at stopping this year), Tech has a good chance to win.

That will be the key matchup tomorrow night. If Texas can get pressure, much like they did a few years ago against Cody Hodges (the former Hereford Whiteface), and put Harrell on his back or maybe break his throwing shoulder, Texas will win. If Tech's mammoth OL can keep Harrell safe for the 2.1 seconds he needs to deliver the ball, Tech will win." 

 

So...for the record, even though I was wrong about most of the things in my "analysis". There were a few things I had right on.

Tech forced 12 third downs, seven of which were longer than four yards. Texas only converted four of them. Coming into the game they were one of the best in the nation at third down efficiency at well over 50%.

Tech was able to force Texas into third and longs. One of my ingredients for a Tech win.

The other ingredient was to keep Harrell protected. He was only sacked twice and wasn't really pressured that much throughout the game. The loss of Brian Orakpo, Texas' most dynamic pass rusher, to a sprained knee didn't help the cause, but we're not making excuses here.

Texas didn't get pressure on Harrell. The other ingredient was successfully poured into the Texas Tech crock pot and they won.

The other thing that really surprised me about the game was that Texas made all the silly mental mistakes that I thought Tech would make.

Dropped passes (and interceptions), penalties, etc...

I give Tech much credit for playing with and showing the amount of poise they did on Saturday. The team turned a corner when they were able to take all the momentum away from Texas in the final 89 seconds, drive the field and non-chalantly take the lead back with one second left.

I'll also give the fans credit. They sure create a great atmosphere for college football.

So for all you Tech fans out there, I'll do you a favor. I'm going to keep predicting Tech to lose...it sure seems to be working for you so far.

And I am left with no dignity.

 

 

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