Offensive Grades: Florida International

The Red Raiders put in a complete offensive performance last Saturday, gaining 584 total yards in a 54-21 win over Florida International. 

We saw some surprises from the game. Matt Wells and Sonny Cumbie figured out there was more than one receiver on the team, and the offensive line wasn’t terrible like it has been. SaRodrick Thompson made his return too, which was very cool to see.

Here are my offensive position grades from last Saturday’s game:

Quarterbacks: A

After a rough game against Stephen F. Austin last week, Tyler Shough looked much better last Saturday. He completed 26 passes for 399 yards and four touchdowns. In short, he did what he was supposed to against a team like FIU.

Now, he needs to play like this every game. If he can do this against Texas, the Red Raiders have a chance to pull off the road upset.

Oh, and we saw Henry Colombi get some action too, which is nice. He scored on a rushing touchdown.

Running Backs: A-

Welcome back SaRodrick Thompson! After weeks of speculation, Thompson finally returned against the Panthers, scoring a touchdown on his first carry of the season. Tahj Brooks and Xavier White didn’t look too bad either, combining for 83 rushing yards on 16 carries. 

Tech’s passing game took precedence, so the running game didn’t get a chance to shine as much. However, it is excellent to know the three-headed backfield of Thompson, Brooks, and White is at full strength. 

Wide Receivers: A+

Shough spent the first few games targeting Erik Ezukanma non-stop. There’s not much wrong with that, as we all know how good he is, but Tech’s other receivers needed opportunities. Wells, Cumbie, and Shough needed to realize that the Red Raiders have more than just him to throw to.

That realization finally occurred last Saturday. Receivers other than Ezukanma got the chance to make an impact. Kaylon Geiger, Dalton Rigdon, and Trey Cleveland all made big plays against the Panthers. Geiger especially showed out, catching six passes for 121 yards.   

Not counting Ezukanma, Tech receivers caught 21 passes for 356 yards and four touchdowns. Ezukanma himself had three catches for 28 yards.

Texas Tech is finally showing its receiver depth. These are the things you love to see.

Offensive Line: A-

The offensive line actually didn’t stink last Saturday. After two abysmal performances, the unit allowed zero sacks, giving Shough enough time in the pocket. 

Like Shough, we can’t make a complete judgment. FIU isn’t a great team. But, the Offensive Line’s performance is definitely something to build on as the Red Raiders enter conference play.