Could Texas Tech's Experience Reshuffle Big 12 South?

Spring football is always a time of hope, optimism and rampant hyperbole. This year in the Big 12 is no different. But one can't help but take notice of the increased expectations as spring practice opens in Lubbock, Texas. Both local and national media outlets are already touting the Red Raiders as one to watch in the Big 12's southern division.

Much of the talk centers on the fact that Texas Tech returns 18 starters from a team that finished 9-4 in 2007. Given that they also return the nation's most prolific receiver in Michael Crabtree, a talented quarterback in Graham Harrell (pictured at right) and their entire offensive line, this could truly be the year that Mike Leach's squad crests the proverbial hump.

"We've had two of the most exciting bowl games for two straight years," [head coach Mike] Leach said. "... And we expect to keep improving and that there will be more to come in the future."

The fate of the Red Raiders will likely rest on the play of their defense...again. This is troubling given that Tech has finished in the Top 30 in total defense just once in the last five years. But this year fans are pinning their hopes on defensive coordinator Ruffin McNeill, who enters his first full season at that position. McNeill served as interim defensive coordinator after Lyle Setencich "stepped down" following the fourth game of the season. McNeill's impact was sudden and significant in 2007.

"Under McNeill, Tech led the Big 12 in total defense over the regular season's final eight games. Overall, the Red Raiders finished third in the conference in total defense, their highest finish during Leach's eight-year tenure."

Clearly Tech fan has a reason to smile this spring. But whether Oklahoma, Texas and the rest of the Big 12 South has reason for concern has yet to be seen.