Texas Tech Practice Report
September 14, 2000 | Football
Sept. 14, 2000
LUBBOCK, Texas - The Texas Tech defense is reaping the rewards of the hard work and dedication the unit has displayed on the field during the first three games of the season. The Red Raider defense leads the Big 12 in total defense, allowing 207.7 yards per game. The number also ranks 11th in the nation.
Sophomore linebacker Lawrence Flugence, the Big 12's second-leading tackler with 39, is proud of the defense's ranking, but says there is room for improvement.
"We've improved defensively over the first three games, although Utah State had a pretty big game against us," Flugence said. "We continue to look at ourselves to be better defensively."
The Red Raiders rank in the top five in eight statistical categories, including scoring defense (3rd), passing offense (2nd), passing defense (2nd), kickoff returns (5th), punting (5th), turnover margin (5th), rushing defense (5th) and total defense (1st). Individually, Shaud Williams leads the Big 12 in receptions per game, while Ricky Williams ranks fourth in that category. Kliff Kingsbury ranks in passing yards per game (2nd) and total offense (3rd).
The Red Raiders took to the artificial turf of Jones SBC Stadium Thursday afternoon for a 1 ?-hour workout in shorts and helmets. Following practice, the walk-ons and scout team members scrimmaged for 30 minutes.
"We had a good, crisp practice today," head coach Mike Leach said. "The scout team has done a tremendous job helping us prepare for this game. The O-line had a big day as well."
Texas Tech hosts Louisiana-Lafayette Sat., Sept. 16, at 6 p.m. at Jones SBC Stadium. The game is the fourth of four straight home games for the Red Raiders to open the season. Eight games are slated for the artificial turf of Jones SBC Stadium this season.
For ticket information, contact the Texas Tech Athletic Ticket Office at 806/742-TECH or 888/GO-BIG-12. Red Raider football fans also can purchase tickets on-line at www.texastech.com.