No. 11 Texas Tech playing with a different vibe in second straight 3-0 start

No. 11 Texas Tech is currently 3-0 for the second consecutive season, a feat they have not achieved since a three-season run back in 2009. This season, however, has a different atmosphere compared to last year's College Football Playoff run. Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire noted that while they don't look the same, they are still 3-0.

Last season, the Red Raiders dominated with one of the best defenses in the nation, winning their first six games by double digits, then continuing their dominance with six more games by at least 22 points after a loss to Arizona State. This season, their start has been more challenging due to the addition of 9 NFL players, including six on defense, as well as the offseason drama surrounding transfer quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who eventually forfeited his eligibility fight.

Texas Tech has struggled with finishing drives, evidenced by a loss to Abilene Christian and a narrow victory against Oregon State. Despite the rocky start, defensive tackle A.J. Holmes emphasized that they are still improving daily. Texas Tech is tied atop the Big 12 standings with five other teams at 3-0, while only Kansas has a losing record in the conference.

This equates to a season of potential parity, but not every winning team is created equal. BYU and Utah have also started strong, with BYU benefiting from the return of L.J. Martin and Utah's stingy defense. Other teams like Kansas State, Cincinnati, and West Virginia are also beginning their seasons on the right foot.