Photo: Texas Tech Opens $242M Football Building; Includes Barbershop, Podcast Studio
Doric Sam
Mar 5, 2025
Texas Tech unveiled a new feature on Wednesday that will surely make current players happy and set itself apart when recruiting top football prospects.
The Red Raiders officially opened the Womble Football Center, a new football facility that cost $242 million and includes a barbershop, a podcast studio, a new locker room and weight room, a two-story team lounge, new recovery areas and a walkthrough room named after famed alum and Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes:
Texas Tech has officially opened its $242 MILLION football facility, the Womble Football Center, featuring:
• Barbershop • Podcast studio • New locker room • New weight room • Two-story team lounge • Hydro and cryo recovery areas • Patrick Mahomes Walk-Through Room pic.twitter.com/Wtal0wL3hv
Texas Tech stated that the Womble Football Center represents the largest facility investment in the athletics department’s history. The facility is named after Dustin R. Womble, who is a member of the Texas Tech University System Board of Regents and the namesake of the school's Womble Basketball Center as well.
The Red Raiders went 8-5 in 2024 and ended their season with a 39-26 loss to Arkansas in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl. 247Sports ranks the team's 2025 recruiting class 23rd overall. The new football facility could help improve that ranking in upcoming years.
FAU Replaces Herman with Texas Tech's Zach Kittley; 33-Year-Old Is Youngest HC in FBS
Dec 3, 2024
LUBBOCK, TEXAS - OCTOBER 19: Offensive coordinator Zach Kittley of the Texas Tech Red Raiders walks off the field before the game against the Baylor Bears at Jones AT&T Stadium on October 19, 2024 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
Florida Atlantic hired Texas Tech offensive coordinator Zach Kittley to be its next head coach, per ESPN's Max Olson.
The hire makes Kittley, 33, the youngest coach in the FBS.
"Following an extensive search with a tremendous amount of interest from candidates across the country, Zach emerged as the ideal choice to be our next head coach," FAU athletic director Brian White said in a statement, per Olson. "He is a man of high integrity and character, with an incredible reputation in the profession for player development. Zach is one of the most innovative offensive minds in the game, and I am confident in his ability to build a championship program with an exciting brand of football that can be a source of pride for our fans, our alumni, and the FAU community."
FAU fired head coach Tom Herman after a 2-8 start to the season and an 0-6 start to conference play. Herman, who was hired ahead of the 2023 season, finished his tenure with a 6-16 record.
The hire marks Kittley's first head coaching job after spending just over a decade in various assistant coaching roles.
He was a student assistant under current Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury at Texas Tech in 2013 and 2014 before becoming a graduate assistant from 2015 to 2017. During his first stint with the Red Raiders, he worked with Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
From there, he served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Houston Baptist from 2018 to 2020 and spent the 2021 season in the same role at Western Kentucky.
In his stint with the Hilltoppers, he coached quarterback Bailey Zappe as he threw for 5,967 passing yards and 62 touchdowns, both numbers being single-season records in college football.
"I am thrilled at this opportunity to be the head coach at Florida Atlantic," Kittley said in a statement. "I am extremely grateful. I want to thank Vice President and Director of Athletics Brian White and President Stacy Volnick for believing in me to take over this nationally-regarded program. I know we can win here, and we have tremendous leadership from the top down to create a championship program.
Before hiring Kittley, Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis reportedly emerged as a candidate, though Ross Dellinger of Yahoo Sports was told the hire was "not happening."
FAU experienced a brief moment of success during current Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin's tenure in Boca Raton. The Owls went 11-3 with a Conference USA championship in 2017 and had the same record and result in 2019, which was Kiffin's final year at the helm.
Since then, FAU has yet to put together a winning season, but it's now hoping Kittley can change that.
Video: Texas Tech HC Joey McGuire Slams 'Embarrassing' CFP Committee, Defends Big 12
Nov 30, 2024
LUBBOCK, TEXAS - OCTOBER 19: Head coach Joey McGuire of the Texas Tech Red Raiders walks across the field before the game against the Baylor Bears at Jones AT&T Stadium on October 19, 2024 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire slammed the College Football Playoff selection committee on Saturday for where Big 12 teams were placed in the latest playoff rankings.
Boise State is ranked above every Big 12 team at No. 11 in the Week 13 CFP rankings and could beat out the conference for a first-round bye.
"It's absolutely embarrassing what they're doing to this conference," McGuire said on Saturday. "If they look at it that way, if they sit there and say who's playing the best football, who's the most competitive conference, who week in and week out, what you see on tape and the games that you've got to play, I think the Big 12 should be in, the Big 12 champion should be in the Final Four."
McGuire added: "I think it's absolutely ridiculous what is happening at that level, with that committee."
#TexasTech head coach Joey McGuire with a statement regarding the College Football Playoffs and conference realignment: pic.twitter.com/cyaAV1lge1
The four conference champions ranked highest by the CFP committee earn an automatic spot in the playoff quarterfinals.
McGuire pointed out that the teams with a shot at the top spot in the power conferences played in other conferences last season, including former Pac-12 teams Oregon and Arizona State. Oregon has clinched a spot in the Big Ten championship game, while Arizona State can still qualify for the Big 12 title game.
"Just go back and think about that, I guess, whenever you're away, and you just change your patch on your jersey, that it actually means something that you're in a different conference, and that conference is all-powerful," McGuire said.
The CFP rankings are decided by a 13-person panel. McGuire expressed hope that the former football coaches among the group would have "more of an influence" on the rankings going forward.
McGuire's critiques echo a recent comment by conference commissioner Brett Yormark, who told Yahoo Sports' Ross Dellenger that the Big 12 champion deserved a spot among these top four seeds.
"Based on where we sit today, I see no rationale for the Big 12's champion not getting a first-round bye," Yormark said, per Dellenger. "The winner of our championship should receive a bye. I have a lot of trust in the selection committee and I'm sure they'll see it that way.
"Just look at the data. The data doesn't lie. From a strength-of-schedule standpoint, all four of our schools at the top of the standings are ranked ahead of Boise State."
The fifth of six CFP rankings will be released after Week 14 play wraps up on Tuesday, Dec. 3.
Patrick Mahomes Reacts to Texas Tech Hype Video Showing White Jerseys with QB's Logo
Nov 21, 2024
ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 17: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs throws a pass during the first quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on November 17, 2024 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, a former Texas Tech star, reacted to the Red Raiders' reveal of this week's uniforms featuring his signature "Gladiator" logo.
Texas Tech wide receiver Caleb Douglas modeled the uniforms, which the Red Raiders will wear for their road game at Oklahoma State on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Mahomes, adidas and Texas Tech previously announced the inclusion of the logo on the "Mahomes Strategy uniform," which the team wore on Nov. 9 against Colorado.
"Seeing my own logo on the Texas Tech uniform I put so much blood, sweat and tears in is one of the most meaningful off-field accomplishments of my career," Mahomes said in a press release. "I want to thank the three-stripe family for giving me this one-of-a-kind opportunity."
Adidas became "the official footwear, uniform, apparel and accessory partner of the Red Raiders" in July, per the release. That also included a 10-year partnership featuring Mahomes' logo on co-branded apparel.
Mahomes, a Texas Tech alum, starred for the Red Raiders from 2014-2016. He threw for 11,252 yards (including 421.0 per game in 2016) and 93 touchdowns for his career before Kansas City selected him with the No. 10 pick in the 2017 NFL draft.
He's since become a two-time NFL MVP, six-time Pro Bowler and three-time Super Bowl champion. Mahomes and the 9-1 Chiefs are also shooting to become the first-ever team to win three straight Super Bowls.
Texas Tech Thrills Patrick Mahomes, CFB Fans in Upset Win over Undefeated No. 11 ISU
Nov 3, 2024
AMES, IA - NOVEMBER 02: Running back Jaylon Jackson #12 of the Iowa State Cyclones is tackled by linebacker Ben Roberts #13, and defensive back Brenden Jordan #7 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders as he rushed for yards in the first half of play at Jack Trice Stadium on November 2, 2024, in Ames, Iowa. (Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images)
Texas Tech secured an upset victory over No. 11 Iowa State with a late go-ahead touchdown on Saturday, winning by the final score of 23-22.
The Red Raiders improved to 6-3 while handing the Cyclones their first loss of the season.
With Texas Tech trailing by five points and less than 30 seconds left in the fourth quarter, running back Tahj Brooks found the end zone on a five-yard rush.
While the two-point conversion was unsuccessful, head coach Joey McGuire's team was able to prevent Iowa State from scoring on the ensuing drive to earn the win. Brooks finished with 122 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries.
Fans and players alike were amazed by the result, including Kansas City Chiefs superstar and former Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
With the win, the Red Raiders became bowl-eligible for the fourth consecutive season and will make their third straight bowl appearance under McGuire. It was an important win for Texas Tech's defense, as the team was coming off a two-game losing streak in which it allowed 94 total points.
After narrowly escaping with a win against UCF to improve to 7-0 on Oct. 19, Iowa State's undefeated start to the season has come to an end.
Video: Texas Tech Unveils New Uniform Featuring Patrick Mahomes' Gladiator Logo
Oct 10, 2024
TUCSON, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 05: Linebacker Bryce Ramirez #3 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders reacts after a defensive stop against the Arizona Wildcats during the first half of the NCAAF game at Arizona Stadium on October 05, 2024 in Tucson, Arizona. The Red Raiders defeated the Wildcats 28-22. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Texas Tech released images and a video of the team's new uniforms on Thursday, which feature the gladiator logo of Kansas City Chiefs superstar and former Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
"I believe y'all have everything it takes right here," Mahomes told players on Aug. 23 before unveiling the jerseys. "So make sure when you put in the work every single day, when you step out of this building or step in it, you're all in."
The uniforms will be worn for the first time when the Red Raiders face off against Colorado on Nov. 9.
"Seeing my own logo on the Texas Tech uniform I put so much blood, sweat and tears in is one of the most meaningful off-field accomplishments of my career," Mahomes said, per the school's official website.
The jerseys feature dark gray coloring with red accents while the helmet, logos and numbers are displayed in a metallic film with galvanized finishes.
Texas Tech announced on July 1 that the school reached a 10-year agreement with Adidas that resulted in the apparel brand becoming the new footwear, uniform and accessory partner for the school. As part of the deal, Mahomes' signature logo would be included on co-branded apparel.
It also represented the first time that an Adidas athlete partner's logo was on official college apparel.
Mahomes has continued to support his alma mater, as he revealed the inaugural "Team Mahomes" NIL class on Aug. 23. The class featured six Red Raiders athletes from different sports that will all appear in future Adidas campaigns supporting Mahomes' shoe and apparel lines with the company.
Before winning three Super Bowl titles with the Chiefs, the 29-year-old was lighting up defenses at Jones AT&T Stadium. In his three years with the program from 2014 to '16, Mahomes completed 63.5 percent of his throws for 11,252 yards and 93 touchdowns compared to 29 interceptions.
After repeatedly giving back to Texas Tech, the star quarterback's logo is now featured on the team's newest uniform.
Patrick Mahomes, Wife Brittany Donate $5M to Texas Tech's Football Center Project
Aug 22, 2024
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 16: Patrick Mahomes and Brittany Mahomes attend the 2024 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Launch Party at Hard Rock Hotel on May 16, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Taylor Hill/WireImage)
Patrick and Brittany Mahomes have made a $5 million donation to Texas Tech as part of the school's South End Zone and Dustin R. Womble Football Center project.
The university announced the donation on Thursday, along with noting that the soon-to-be-completed walkthrough area in the Womble Football Center will be named after the former Red Raiders quarterback.
"When we first launched this campaign, Patrick was only a freshman and now it is fitting that we approach the end of the campaign with a gift of his own," athletic director Kirby Hocutt said in the announcement. "We couldn't be prouder to announce this gift from Patrick and Brittany Mahomes. We are so proud of Patrick for all he has accomplished and how he has continually supported Texas Tech on a global scale."
Texas Tech originally announced the South End Zone and Dustin R. Womble Football Center project in July 2022. Funds for the $242 million project are coming primarily through private fundraising and traditional athletic department revenue streams.
The project is highlighted by two new structures: a building near the south end zone that feeds into Jones AT&T Stadium and is connected to the Dustin R. Womble Football Center.
“Now it’s time to get to work.”
The $200 million project will be used to construct a new South Endzone and the new Womble Football Center at Jones AT&T Stadium. #WreckEmpic.twitter.com/vlEHr6zK8a
Mahomes is arguably the best NFL player ever who played college football at Texas Tech. He is one of seven alums who has been named to the All-Pro first team at least once.
Pro Football Hall of Famer Zach Thomas (seven) is the only Texas Tech player with more Pro Bowl selections than Mahomes (six). His three Super Bowl titles with the Kansas City Chiefs are the most of any Red Raiders player.
Mahomes played three seasons at Texas Tech from 2014 to '16. He ranks third in school history in passing yards (11,252) and passing touchdowns (93). His 22 rushing touchdowns are the second-most by a Texas Tech quarterback (Zebbie Lethridge: 27).
Texas Tech inducted Mahomes into its Hall of Fame and Ring of Honor in 2022.
The project is expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2024 season. Texas Tech will play its first home game against Abilene Christian on Aug. 31.
Photo: Baby Gronk Commits to Texas Tech After Pledging to James Franklin, Penn State
Jun 12, 2024
MOBILE, AL - FEBRUARY 01: A general view of a Texas Tech Red Raiders helmet during the American team practice for the Reese's Senior Bowl on February 1, 2024 at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama. (Photo by Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Baby Gronk, a.k.a. 11-year-old youth football star and social media personality Madden San Miguel, has now "committed" to Texas Tech on Wednesday, just one day after he previously "committed" to Penn State.
Baby Gronk hasn't actually received an offer, per the On3 database. He has also "committed" to these schools since May 28, per his X account: Texas Tech, Penn State, Ole Miss, Clemson, Texas A&M, Louisville, Kentucky, Minnesota, Pitt, South Carolina, Texas, USC, Auburn, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Nebraska.
As noted by the Athletic's Ari Wasserman last year, Baby Gronk's social media is run by his father, Jake San Miguel. So Baby Gronk himself isn't doing these commitments, but the guess here is the Texas Tech one won't be the last we see of this series.
Dadrion Taylor-Demerson NFL Draft 2024: Scouting Report for Texas Tech S
Apr 23, 2024
LUBBOCK, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 09: Dadrion Taylor-Demerson #1 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders defends against Bucky Irving #0 of the Oregon Ducks during the second half of the game at Jones AT&T Stadium on September 09, 2023 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
HEIGHT: 6'0"
WEIGHT: 197
HAND: 9⅝"
ARM: 30⅞"
WINGSPAN: 74¼"
40-YARD DASH: 4.41
3-CONE: 7.00
SHUTTLE: 4.39
VERTICAL: 38"
BROAD: 10'3"
POSITIVES
— Scheme versatility. Able to play in multiple coverages, as well as able to align and play at all three levels of the defense.
— Instinctive player who has a knack for getting a jump on the ball in the air.
— Very good straight-line speed. Has the recovery speed to catch up when out of position.
NEGATIVES
— Poor eye discipline can get him in trouble with play fakes.
— Can be more of a finesse defender at times. Lacks the blow delivery when tackling. Wrapdown tackler.
Dadrion Taylor-Demerson is a long, lean safety with a bunch of experience coming from Texas Tech. He has the versatility to play all over the field, combined with the intelligence and ball skills to be a productive player in the NFL.
As a defender in coverage, Taylor-Demerson's football smarts and instincts stand out the most. He has the instincts to read and react to the quarterback. With the desired top-end speed, he does a very good job of getting a break on the ball and covering a lot of ground.
Paired with his athletic profile, Taylor-Demerson has the ball skills to locate and react to the ball in the air. However, his eyes can get stuck on things at times, causing him to lose sight of this man or threats coming into his zone.
When playing the run, Taylor-Demerson does a great job of tracking ball-carriers and closing ground on them. He is inconsistent with his path to the ball at times and can either overrun or allow the ball to cut back on him. When geared up for the run, he can be fooled at times with play action, allowing receivers to run free. When tackling, he does a good job of wrapping up and getting ball-carriers on the ground, although he often stops on contact and doesn't run his feet through the tackle.
Ultimately, Taylor-Demerson is a long, athletic defensive back with plenty of starting experience. He will need to continue to work on his run defense, but he has the length and athleticism to make an impact in the pass game in the NFL. He has the upside of someone who could start early in his career.
GRADE: 6.5 (Potential Role Player/Contributor — 4th Round)
