Joey McGuire wants to bring back the Red Raider spirit from 25 years ago.
Joey McGuire, the head coach of Texas Tech, is not just guiding a football team, but also a movement. Since taking over the Red Raiders, McGuire has accepted the challenge of returning Texas Tech to its hard-nosed, gutsy form from 25 years ago. He envisions a club that represents toughness, resilience, and a never-say-die spirit, reminiscent of the glory days of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Back then, Texas Tech football had a reputation. It was a program that didn’t care who was on the other side of the field; it was going to compete with grit, confidence, and an explosive offensive style. Players entered the pitch with a chip on their shoulder, knowing they had something to prove. McGuire wants to restore that mentality in Lubbock.
“We need to get back to being the Red Raiders that teams hated playing,” McGuire stated recently. “We had the edge. We played fast, tough, and took delight in making opponents uncomfortable.”
McGuire has already made tremendous efforts to foster that mindset in his players. His emphasis on aggressive, attacking defence and a fast-paced offensive strategy mirrors the traditional Red Raider identity. More significantly, he is demanding a culture of accountability, enthusiasm, and unwavering effort—characteristics that marked Texas Tech football during its most competitive years.
Recruiting is an important aspect of McGuire’s vision. He’s bringing in athletes who embody what it means to be a Red Raider: fierce, intelligent, and unafraid of competition. He wants players who are excited about the challenge of playing in the Big 12 and are willing to go all out against their opponents.
“I tell our guys all the time: Texas Tech isn’t a stepping stone. “This is a place where you come to make history,” McGuire said. “We’re building something special, and we’re going to bring back that Red Raider edge.”
McGuire’s passion has sparked a response from the fan community. There’s a buzz around Texas Tech football that hasn’t been felt in years. The players, alumni, and thousands that packed Jones AT&T Stadium all believe McGuire is the coach who will restore the program’s national importance.
Joey McGuire’s message is clear: Texas Tech is coming. And they’re reviving the fight, swagger, and Red Raider identity from 25 years ago.