GETTING DEFENSIVE: Texas Tech coach Mike Leach doesn’t think switching defensive coordinators in the middle of the season is a risky move.
"It's all the same faces we've had," he said.
Except one. Lyle Setencich stepped aside Sunday, citing personal reasons in a move that came a day after the team’s 49-45 loss to Oklahoma State. Ruffin McNeill will fill in as interim defensive coordinator.
"Players reflect the mentality of their coach. I think we needed a change in mentality," said Leach, whose defense gave up 610 yards of total offense against the Cowboys.
The Red Raiders’ high-powered offense had 718 yards as quarterback Graham Harrell threw for a career-best 646 yards. Harrell was named the conference’s offensive player of the week Monday.
Although the Red Raiders are known for their offense, Leach expects the defense to hold up its end.
“I think it’s a complete cop-out anytime people say if you’re good on one side you can’t be on the other,” Leach said.