{
  "id": 4686871,
  "title": "No. 12 Texas Tech expects another top defense, even after 6 NFL draft picks from that side",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/31/no-12-texas-tech-expects-another-top-defense-even-after-6-nfl-draft",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-31T18:17:21.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Winnipeg Free Press",
    "slug": "winnipeg-free-press",
    "url": "https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/uncategorized/2026/08/31/no-12-texas-tech-expects-another-top-defense-even-after-6-nfl-draft-picks-from-that-side"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "After a successful first Big 12 Conference championship and a College Football Playoff run, Texas Tech anticipates another strong defense, even with a loss of key players to the NFL draft. Six defensive players were taken in the draft last April, four in the first three rounds, including edge rusher David Bailey, who was selected No. 2 overall. Despite this loss, the 12th-ranked Red Raiders could still boast one of the nation’s top defenses due to their depth and experience.\n\nCoach Joey McGuire highlighted the team's depth, boasting seven defensive tackles who have started college games and an all-around experienced secondary. Returning cornerback Brice Pollock and linebacker Ben Roberts emphasized the team's depth and league readiness. Freshman edge rushers Adam Trick and Trey White, who had impressive sack numbers at Miami (Ohio) and San Diego State, respectively, are among the dozen new defensive players.\n\nWhile the team set a school record with 12 wins last season, their 23-0 loss to Oregon in the Orange Bowl playoff quarterfinal remains a painful memory for the returning players. However, they are focused on building on that success and improving their defense for the upcoming season.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [
    "Texas Tech anticipates strong defense despite losing 6 NFL draft picks",
    "12th-ranked Red Raiders boast depth and experienced secondary",
    "Freshman edge rushers Adam Trick and Trey White join returning players"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}