Texas Tech’s backup quarterback, Will Hammond, will miss the remainder of the season due to a torn ACL in his right knee. The injury occurred during the No. 13 Red Raiders’ decisive 42-0 victory over Oklahoma State. This marked Hammond’s second start as he filled in for Behren Morton, who is anticipated to return for the team’s upcoming game against Kansas State on October 28, 2025.
Head Coach Joey McGuire expressed optimism about Hammond’s recovery, stating that he expects him to be ready for next season, although Hammond will likely miss spring practice. “If it’s gonna be somebody that’s going to be totally dedicated to getting back and attack the situation, there’s nobody that attacks anything like Will Hammond,” McGuire noted. “Feel real confident that he’ll have himself ready to go.”
Hammond’s injury elevates Mitch Griffis to the position of backup quarterback. Griffis, who spent last season out of football, previously played nine games at Wake Forest in 2023 where he demonstrated his capability by throwing for a touchdown and running for another score after Hammond left the Oklahoma State game.
Morton, the starting quarterback, is recovering from multiple injuries. He initially injured his knee during a dominant 67-7 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff and aggravated it in a 41-17 victory against Kansas on October 11, 2025. Morton was also sidelined briefly after a helmet hit during a 34-10 win at Utah.
Texas Tech currently holds a record of 7-1 and 4-1 in the Big 12, positioning them well as they prepare for the remainder of the season. As they look ahead to the matchup against Kansas State, the Red Raiders will need to adapt to the loss of Hammond while hoping for Morton’s swift return to form.
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