Joey McGuire lays out the Texas Tech football staff’s preparation strategy for the Liberty Bowl.

With the Liberty Bowl on the horizon, Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire has laid out a clear strategy for his team and coaching staff as they prepare to face Arkansas on December 27 in Memphis, Tennessee. While the Red Raiders return to practice Monday, the opening of the NCAA transfer portal has created a dual focus for McGuire’s newly appointed coordinators: assessing the current roster and securing new talent.

Offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich and defensive coordinator Shiel Wood, both newly hired, have been tasked with evaluating the team’s players and participating in transfer portal recruitment. “Their priority is understanding our roster and being involved in visits with transfer candidates,” McGuire explained. “That’s why it was so important to finalize these hires before December 9.” While the coordinators will contribute insights for the bowl game, their primary focus will be long-term development.

McGuire has made interim adjustments to the coaching staff for the bowl game. Kirk Bryant, senior offensive analyst, will take a hands-on role with quarterbacks, while analyst Darcel McBath steps in to assist with cornerbacks. Play-calling responsibilities for the game will rest with wide receivers coach Justin “Juice” Johnson on offense and outside linebackers coach C.J. Ah You on defense. These arrangements also provide an opportunity for the new coordinators to evaluate the coaching staff and determine future additions or changes.

In a nod to his family ties and a focus on recruiting, McGuire plans to bring his son, Garret McGuire, onto the staff in a role potentially involving running backs or special teams. Garret, who has spent the past two years as Nebraska’s wide receivers coach, has earned a reputation as a high-energy recruiter. “He’s ranked among the top recruiters in the nation,” McGuire shared, “and his addition will undoubtedly strengthen our program.”

The upcoming weeks promise a balancing act for the Red Raiders as they navigate bowl preparations and offseason planning. With a reshaped coaching staff and fresh energy in recruitment, Texas Tech aims to use the Liberty Bowl not only as a chance for victory but as a stepping stone toward a strong 2025 campaign.