Pirate Gang Rallies Around New Captain — Ruffin McNeill, Tech Wins In Alamo Bowl

January 3rd, 2010 · Tags:Cities · Sports

Starter Potts And Trophy

After giving up the lead just minutes into the third quarter, Tech finally finished off Michigan State in a game that saw several lead changes in the second half. Final score, Texas Tech 41, Michigan State, 31.

Spread Offense

Center of Controversy, Adam James

The understatement of the year would be to say that Tech had overcome distractions and adversity, since the firing of former Coach Mike Leach. But, in rallying around interim Coach Ruffin McNeill, Tech outscored their season average — significant because McNeill was the defensive strategist in the old regime.

Sticks And Chicks

Also significant in the win, the Red Raiders final, lasting rally was led by fan favorite Steven “Sticks” Sheffield, after starter Taylor Potts was pulled from the fray … “a little dinged up.” Potts had kept Tech in the hunt, throughout the lead changes — tallying 30 completions on 44 attempts, 384 yards, 2 TDS, an interceptions and several dropped balls.

Guns Up!

Sheffield, the QB with that “it” factor ignited the Raiders, with confidence, fast pace and performance. He went 6 for 6, 75 yards for a TD on his first possession to gain back the lead, and ended with 9 for 11, 88 yards passing and a TD.

McNeill, trophy and Tech Bad Boy Brandon Carter

Best of all … the most overlooked highlight of the game was that no PingWi-Fi’s were harmed in the making of this blog … although a tackle in Tech’s second from final defensive stand, landed at the blogger’s feet. We tweeted unceasingly and the Wi-Fi at The Alamodome was perfect. We are scanning the ESPN highlights now. for the near sideline incident.

Positive Media

Lastly … shout out to the Heard Brothers who work for Tech, and to Derik from CBS … all good Tech types from back in the day — seen down on the sidelines.

First Half Hero Matt Williams, Will Kick For Rent

One other Techsan I saw … Athletic Director Gerald Myers, outside the media elevator on the way out after the game. No words exchange, but I noted there was no smile on the man in charge of Texas Tech’s football future.