If there is one thing that Texas Tech football has been known for over the past two decades it is quarterbacks that put up eye-popping numbers. However, 2017 finds the Red Raiders in a new position, trying to replace a quarterback that left early for the NFL Draft.
The departure of Pat Mahomes (with his 11,252 passing yards and 93 career passing touchdowns) leaves Kliff Kingsbury with a frighteningly inexperienced group of quarterbacks. In fact, only one player on the spring football roster, Nic Shimonek, has ever completed a collegiate pass.
It has become so common for Texas Tech to have strong quarterback play that most assume Shimonek will be able to make a smooth transition to the role of starter.