What grade did Red Raiders' offense get after a season-high output in win over Houston?
Tahj Brooks topped 100 yards rushing for the third game in a row and Texas Tech football special teams delivered two touchdowns Saturday as the Red Raiders beat new Big 12 member Houston 49-28 at Jones AT&T Stadium.
Brooks and Cam'Ron Valdez each rushed for 106 yards for the Red Raiders, and Behren Morton threw two touchdown passes, playing a full game after he was limited in practice all week by a shoulder injury. The Red Raiders withstood four touchdown passes by Houston's Donovan Smith, the former Tech quarterback appearing back in Lubbock for the first time.
The outcome made both teams 2-3 for the season. The Red Raiders are 1-1, while the Cougars are 0-2 in the Big 12.
Here is the Red Raiders' report card.
Offense: B
The offense accounted for 35 of the team's season-high 49 points. That's an encouraging bounce-back after a season-low output in a loss at West Virginia.
Defense: C
An injury-depleted defense pitched a shutout in the second half. That was after old teammate Donovan Smith lit them up for four touchdown passes in the first half.
Special Teams: A
Huge day led by a kickoff return touchdown by Drae McCray and a blocked punt and a touchdown from Loic Fouonji. Coverage units also were strong with Chapman Lewis and Terrell Tilmon each tackling return men deep in Cougars' territory.
Coaching: A
Good job managing an uncertain quarterback situation. Even with Behren Morton playing through a tender shoulder, the offense was productive with contributions from multiple players.
Overall: B
Texas Tech was favored by more than a touchdown and couldn't afford a third upset loss. The Red Raiders took care of business with no drama late.
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: How did Raiders' offense grade after season-high output in win vs. UH?
