Game Preview for Texas Tech vs UTEP

Texas Tech (1-0, 0-0 Big 12)

UTEP (0-1, 0-0 Conference USA)

Kickoff: 2:05 p.m.

TV: FSN

Odds: -20.5 Tech

Texas Tech barely survived a 30-26 come-from-behind win over the Miners in El Paso on Sept. 4, 2014.

The Red Raiders may not have much of a defense, but they do have a solid special teams unit and a blossoming offense. I think in Kingsbury's third year he finally has the quarterback style of play from starter Patrick Mahomes that makes his style of offense work. They also have one of the best home field advantages in the nation.

The Red Raiders enter the UTEP game with a 60-10 record at Jones AT&T Stadium dating back to the 2000 season. This weekend boasts the annual "White Out" game where everyone in the stadium is encouraged to wear white to celebrate cotton.

Texas Tech and UTEP meet for the 23rd time in history with the Red Raiders holding a 15-6-1 advantage dating back to 1930. The Red Raiders have won six in a row and UTEP's last win in the series came on Oct. 12, 1957 in a 26-14 victory in El Paso.

Offense

The Texas Tech offense will continue it's production in the passing attack and will run for at least 100 yards again. Pat Mahomes will throw for more than 300 yards and Devin Lauderdale and Ian Sadler will catch more touchdowns as the Tech Offense jumps to a hot start and holds onto a lead for the entire game and total 45 points. Also, if Dylan Cantrell and his back are healthy he will be an impact player in this game.

Kliff Kingsbury will call at least 50 pass plays and close to 30 rush plays and be as close to balanced as he can be. The offensive line will cut down on the false start penalties and be more efficient.

Defense

The defense will be slightly improved, with two more turnovers and only 200 rushing yards allowed will be enough to win as they hold the Miner offense to 31 points. The defensive line will be more effective in the pass rush...if Pete Robertson is in the game. The secondary will only be better this week with the addition of Nigel Bethel back into the rotation.

Special Teams

The special teams will continue to be above average. Jakeem Grant won't return another kickoff for points, but he will provide good field position and Taylor Symmank will continue to boot the ball out of the end zone on kickoffs and provide an advantage with his punting prowess.

Prediction

The Red Raiders will shaft the Miners 45 to 31 after getting to an early lead and maintaining the distance for the duration of the contest.

For all of your pregame action, listen to 1340 AM and online to 1340thefan.com as Rob Snyder, Allen Corbin and Aaron Brodie bring you Countdown to Kickoff.

See photos from the Texas Tech-SHSU game below