The iconic “Crabtree Catch” that electrified a generation of Texas Tech fans is set to take on a whole new meaning. In a move that has ignited the passionate Red Raider Nation, Texas Tech University officially announced today the appointment of legendary wide receiver Michael Crabtree as the new head coach of its football program. Crabtree, a College Football Hall of Famer and one of the most beloved figures in program history, delivered a powerful declaration, stating his return home is to “redeem the reputation of my team.
The decision to hire Crabtree, 37, comes after the university parted ways with former Head Coach Joey McGuire following a 8-5 season in 2024 and an earlier-than-hoped playoff exit. While McGuire led the Red Raiders to a strong defensive showing and an overall upward trajectory, the administration and a significant portion of the fan base craved a spark that could truly elevate the program to consistent national contention. They believe they’ve found that in Crabtree.
This appointment is a bold and unconventional one, as Crabtree has no prior formal coaching experience at the collegiate or professional level since retiring from the NFL in 2019. His coaching resume is largely limited to informal mentorships, private training for young athletes, and passionate advocacy for his alma mater. However, Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt emphasized that Crabtree’s deep understanding of the game, his unparalleled competitive fire, and his profound connection to the university were decisive factors.
This is a moment of immense pride and excitement for Texas Tech,” said Hocutt at a packed press conference at the Sports Performance Center. “Michael Crabtree isn’t just a legend; he’s the embodiment of what it means to be a Red Raider. His dedication, his work ethic, his ability to make extraordinary plays – these are qualities we believe he will instill in every single player and coach in this program. His connection to our roots runs deep, and we are confident he is the leader to take us to unprecedented heights.
But it was Crabtree’s own words that captured the immediate attention of the college football world. Dressed in a sharp scarlet suit, his familiar intensity palpable, he spoke directly to the heart of the Red Raider identity.
I’ve watched from afar, and I’ve seen the grit, the fight, the talent that’s here. Joey McGuire built a solid foundation, no doubt,” Crabtree acknowledged. “But Texas Tech football, it’s about more than just being solid. It’s about being feared. It’s about being innovative. It’s about being champions. The reputation of this team, the one I remember, the one that shocked the world from Lubbock, it’s time to bring that back. I’m coming home to finish what we started, to make this team consistently elite, and to compete for championships year in and year out.
The phrase “redeem the reputation of my team” resonated powerfully, echoing the sentiment of a fan base that cherishes the high-flying “Air Raid” days and yearns for a return to national relevance after periods of inconsistency. While the 2025 Red Raiders are already projected by some to have a strong season with a formidable defense and a talented quarterback in Behren Morton, Crabtree’s appointment immediately raises the ceiling of expectation.
Crabtree’s offensive philosophy is anticipated to draw heavily from the “Air Raid” principles he mastered under Mike Leach, but with a modern twist. Observers expect a high-tempo, pass-first attack that leverages the athletic talent the Red Raiders have been accumulating, while also incorporating the physicality and balanced approach that has become more prevalent in successful modern offenses. His background as a wide receiver means an immediate focus on developing elite pass-catchers.
The coaching staff that Crabtree assembles will be crucial. Given his lack of direct coaching experience, he will likely surround himself with veteran coordinators and position coaches who can translate his vision into practical game plans and development strategies. Reports suggest he’s already in talks with several prominent names to fill out his staff.
For Texas Tech, this hiring represents a bold embrace of its past to forge its future. It’s a clear signal that the program is willing to take a calculated risk to reignite the passion and excitement that surrounded Crabtree’s playing days. As the Red Raiders prepare for the 2025 season under their new, iconic leader, the question isn’t just whether they’ll win games, but whether Michael Crabtree can truly “redeem” the Red Raider reputation and lead his beloved team back to the pinnacle of college football. The journey home, for Texas Tech’s most famous son, has just begun.
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