In a highly anticipated matchup, the Texas Tech Red Raiders are set to face the Oregon Ducks in the College Football Playoff Orange Bowl on January 1, 2024. A significant factor in this clash could be the health of quarterback Behren Morton, who has overcome a serious injury to lead his team into the playoffs.
Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire expressed his confidence in Morton, highlighting the quarterback’s resilience. “There he is,” McGuire remarked as Morton walked by, emphasizing the importance of his presence. Morton, a fifth-year quarterback, endured a hairline fracture in his right fibula during the latter part of the season but still managed to guide the Red Raiders to a remarkable 12-1 record.
Despite his injury, Morton played a pivotal role in his team’s success, helping them average 40.6 points per game in the five games he participated in after the fracture. His ability to perform under duress has been a rallying point for the team. “To see your quarterback go through some pain and still play his best, there’s no excuse to be tired,” said Texas Tech wide receiver Coy Eakin.
Morton’s Road to Recovery
Morton’s journey back to health has been arduous. After sustaining the injury on October 11 against Kansas, he wore a walking boot for nearly two months. His return to full practice marked a significant turning point, as he has been practicing without restrictions since Tech’s victory over BYU in the Big 12 Championship Game.
Reflecting on his recovery, Morton stated, “How much better can I be when I’m healthy? If I can do this while being injured, what can I do when I’m at my best?” This newfound confidence could be crucial as he prepares to face an Oregon defense that has proven formidable throughout the season.
The Ducks, with a record of 12-1 as well, boast one of the top defenses in the nation, having limited opponents to fewer than twenty points in most games. This sets the stage for an intriguing battle between Texas Tech’s high-powered offense and Oregon’s stingy defensive unit.
Potential Impact on the Game
Morton’s health could provide Texas Tech with a distinct advantage. Prior to his injury, he averaged only one sack per game. However, post-injury, that number surged to over two sacks per game, highlighting the challenges he faced while navigating the pressure from opposing defenses. The Ducks are known for their aggressive pass rush, applying pressure in over 10% of all pass-rush situations.
Oregon defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi acknowledged Morton’s capabilities, noting, “He runs the offense really well.” Lupoi suggested that Morton’s improved health might reveal new facets of Texas Tech’s offense, potentially catching the Ducks off guard.
Morton’s ability to connect with a variety of playmakers within the offense could be essential for success. “We have so many playmakers, it makes my job easy,” he explained. The Red Raiders have shown explosive potential, but maintaining that momentum against a higher-caliber defense will be a significant test.
As both teams prepare for this pivotal showdown, the focus will be on how Morton’s recovery influences Texas Tech’s performance against Oregon. The Red Raiders hope to capitalize on his healthier status to secure a spot in the semifinals of the College Football Playoff.
With the stakes high and both teams eager to prove themselves, fans can expect an electrifying encounter at Hard Rock Stadium.
