Texas Tech could have a three-quarterback rotation when it hosts West Virginia in a Big 12 game on Saturday in Lubbock, Texas.
Tyler Shough, who has been sidelined since injuring his collarbone in a season-opening rout of Murray State, returned to practice this week. If he’s cleared to play, he’ll see time against the Mountaineers alongside Donovan Smith and Behren Morton.
“If (Shough’s) released, then you’ll see all three quarterbacks,” Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire said. “If not, you’ll see both quarterbacks on Saturday.”
As for who will start, “It will really be as the week goes, who has the best week,” McGuire said, adding: “I think with where we’re at, I think you’re definitely going to see both of them more in this game than what you’ve seen of late.”
Smith has gone 143-for-215 passing for 1,475 yards and 11 touchdowns with seven interceptions, while Morton has completed 50 of 79 passes for 561 yards with three touchdowns and as many interceptions.
Morton went 39-for-62 passing for 379 yards with two touchdowns and an interception in a loss to then-No. 7 Oklahoma State on Oct. 8 after Smith went 34-for-48 with 359 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in a setback to Kansas State the previous week.
Texas Tech (3-3, 1-2) had a bye last week, while West Virginia most recently played in a 43-40 win over Baylor on Thursday.
The quarterback situation at West Virginia (3-3, 1-2), which has won three of its past four games, is simpler.
JT Daniels, who transferred from Georgia before the season, has completed 63.8 percent of his passes for 1,492 yards and nine touchdowns, with three interceptions.
Tony Mathis Jr. powers the Mountaineers’ rushing attack. He ran for 163 yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries against Baylor, bringing his season total to 459 yards and five scores on 92 tries.
“JT does a great job staying calm,” Mathis said. “He’s probably the calmest person I’ve ever seen in the critical moments.”
Texas Tech has won its past three games against West Virginia.
–Field Level Media
