Red Raiders excited about fielding a stingy defense
What a difference a year makes.
In 2017 Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury was asked during Big 12 Media Days how the Red Raiders could improve defensively after a 2016 season where it seemed like they couldn’t stop hardly anyone.
In 2018 Kingsbury walked in and was told Texas Tech led the conference in preseason all-conference selections on the defensive side during Big 12 Media Days. And Kingsbury was quick to credit defensive coordinator David Gibbs, a man who has worked with the head coach for four years.
The Red Raiders return 10 of 11 starters from last year, which has coaches and players very optimistic going into this season.
Kingsbury noted Gibbs “had to redo it all” when he took the job.
“He had a vision, knew what he wanted to do but had to go through two tough years,” Kingsbury said. “To his credit, he stuck to his guns, with his philosophy and his recruiting, and now we’re making strides on that side of the ball to develop a culture and identity that those defensive players and staff are taking a lot of pride in now.”
After four years, Gibbs’ recruits are upperclassmen, and he has recruited athletes who fit his philosophy, Kingsbury said.
“He’s recruiting to that scheme,” the head coach said.
Senior linebacker Dakota Allen said he was thankful Gibbs was still in Lubbock.
“We know the type of team we have,” he said. “We can’t wait to show the world. I love this defense.”
One reason the Red Raiders have improved defensively, Allen said, is because they feel a sense of family. That allows the players to be more coachable and to listen to Gibbs, he added.
He believes this defense has the potential to be something special. Just like his head coach, Allen said consistency is the key.
“We have to be more consistent,” he said. “Consistency will come with experience.”
Kingsbury is entering his sixth season coaching his alma mater. Few know the love and passion for Texas Tech football better.
“I’ve always thought it’s a phenomenal college town,” he said. “It’s a matter of getting over the hump. I’ve always felt like the sky’s the limit.”
