Texas Tech football enters the 2026 season carrying something almost as valuable as talent: an edge.
With the Red Raiders closing in on their season opener against Abilene Christian, head coach Joey McGuire doesn't sound interested in playing defense when it comes to outside criticism.
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After an offseason that included quarterback Brendan Sorsby's eligibility situation and plenty of chatter surrounding the program, McGuire appears ready to let Texas Tech answer everybody on the field.
And he didn't exactly hide his feelings.
During a recent podcast appearance, McGuire delivered a pointed message aimed at people questioning his program, essentially warning critics to be careful about throwing stones when their own problems could eventually come calling.
That's vintage McGuire.
He's built much of Texas Tech's identity around confidence, energy and an us-against-the-world mentality. Now he'll get a chance to turn that attitude into production with a roster that still gives the Red Raiders plenty of offensive firepower.
The biggest spotlight falls on quarterback Will Hammond, who steps into the starting role with expectations climbing in Lubbock. Texas Tech's offense won't have to lean entirely on Hammond, either.
The backfield offers multiple options with J'Koby Williams, Cameron Dickey and Quinten Joyner, giving the Red Raiders the flexibility to keep fresh legs on the field and take pressure off their quarterback.
At wide receiver, Kenny Johnson and Malcom Simmons provide Hammond with experienced weapons capable of becoming major pieces of the passing game.
That's why the noise surrounding Texas Tech may ultimately become secondary.
Controversy makes headlines in August. Winning tends to erase them in September.
McGuire understands that better than anyone. Talking back to critics might energize a fan base, but the fastest way to silence them is to stack victories.
Abilene Christian represents the first opportunity.
Texas Tech should enter that matchup with the superior roster and considerably larger expectations, meaning the opener won't simply be about winning.
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It'll be about looking like a team capable of becoming a legitimate factor in the 2026 college football race.
McGuire has already fired the verbal opening shot. Now Hammond and the Red Raiders get to deliver the response that matters.