Full Breakdown
Will Hammond's Season-Ending Injury: Impact on Texas Tech Football
10/27/2025, 12:22:07 PM
Overview of the Injury
Texas Tech quarterback Will Hammond has suffered a torn ACL in his right knee, which will sideline him for the remainder of the 2025 season. The injury occurred during the second quarter of the Red Raiders' 42-0 victory over Oklahoma State on October 25, 2025. Hammond was making his second consecutive start in place of the injured starter, Behren Morton, when he sustained the non-contact injury while attempting to evade a defender.
Performance Before the Injury
Before his injury, Hammond had shown promise as a backup quarterback. In the game against Oklahoma State, he completed 9 of 15 passes for 102 yards and one touchdown. Over the course of the season, he accumulated 680 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions, alongside 299 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. His previous start was against Arizona State, where he threw for 167 yards and two touchdowns despite a loss.
Replacement and Future Outlook
With Hammond out, Texas Tech will rely on third-string quarterback Mitch Griffis, who stepped in to finish the game against Oklahoma State. Griffis completed 9 of 13 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns, contributing significantly to the team's first shutout win over a Big 12 opponent since 2005. Behren Morton, who has been recovering from multiple injuries this season, is expected to return for the upcoming game against Kansas State on November 1, 2025. Coach Joey McGuire indicated that Morton was available in an emergency capacity during the Oklahoma State game and has been progressing well in practice.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Joey McGuire expressed optimism about Morton's recovery, stating, "We felt good about Will and Mitch. We wanted to get him as healthy as we can." He also noted that Morton could have played if the game had been more competitive. Following Hammond's injury, McGuire confirmed that an MRI would be conducted to assess the severity of the injury.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the team's recent success, the ongoing injury issues at the quarterback position have raised concerns among fans and analysts. Hammond's injury marks the fourth time this season that Texas Tech's starting quarterback has left a game due to injury, leading to questions about the team's depth and injury management.
What's Next
Texas Tech faces a critical stretch in the season, with upcoming games against Kansas State and BYU. The performance of Griffis and the potential return of Morton will be pivotal in determining the team's success in these matchups. The Red Raiders currently hold a 7-1 record, and the next two games will significantly impact their postseason aspirations.
