LUBBOCK, Texas – June 15, 2025 – As Texas Tech prepares to descend upon Fort Worth for a crucial Big 12 matchup against TCU, the Red Raiders’ defensive unit enters the 2025 season with a new architect at the helm. After a period of careful consideration and an extensive search, head coach Joey McGuire made a pivotal move in December 2024, announcing the hiring of Shiel Wood as the Red Raiders’ new defensive coordinator.
The appointment of Wood, who arrived in Lubbock after a successful stint at Houston, signaled a clear intent from McGuire to revitalize a defense that, at times in 2024, struggled to consistently deliver. While some reports from late 2024 suggested a prolonged “search,” the reality is that the Red Raider brass moved swiftly and decisively once the decision was made to part ways with former defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter and secondary coach Marcel Yates following the 2024 regular season. Wood was officially announced on December 4, 2024, bringing an end to any lingering questions about the leadership of the defense.
Wood’s resume speaks for itself. He boasts a track record of rapidly improving defensive units at his previous stops, which include Army, Troy, Tulane, and most recently, Houston. His defenses have consistently ranked within the top 35 nationally in total defense, and importantly, have been known for generating havoc plays and turnovers – a philosophy that aligns perfectly with Coach McGuire’s vision for the Red Raiders. The Cougars, under Wood’s guidance in 2024, saw a significant leap in defensive effectiveness, improving from 112th nationally in total defense the year prior to his arrival to a respectable 26th.
This proven ability to instigate immediate improvement was a key factor in Wood’s selection. Texas Tech’s defense in 2024, despite flashes of brilliance, finished 15th in the 16-team Big 12 in both total defense and scoring defense, allowing an average of 451.9 yards and 34.5 points per game. The pass defense, in particular, was a significant area of concern, ranking 133rd out of 134 FBS teams with 305.3 yards allowed per game. Wood’s expertise in creating turnovers, a hallmark of his previous units, is expected to be a game-changer for a Red Raider defense that often left opportunities on the field.
The coaching staff around Wood has also seen some strategic additions. In January 2025, Jack Teachey was brought in as a senior defensive analyst, reuniting him with Wood, with whom he previously coached at Wofford College. This continuity and shared understanding of defensive philosophy are expected to facilitate a smoother transition and implementation of Wood’s system.
As the Red Raiders prepare for their highly anticipated clash in Fort Worth against TCU, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on the defensive unit. While the Horned Frogs’ exact schedule for 2025 will dictate the specific date of this Fort Worth contest, the rivalry remains a significant fixture on both teams’ calendars. Texas Tech will be keen to show that the defensive changes enacted in the offseason have taken hold and that the unit is ready to perform at a higher level in the competitive Big 12.
The early impressions from spring practices and player testimonials suggest a positive outlook for the defense under Wood. Players have spoken about the intensity and clarity of his coaching, indicating a renewed sense of purpose and direction. The challenge now lies in translating that energy and newfound understanding into consistent on-field performance against formidable Big 12 opponents.
The 2025 season marks a new chapter for Texas Tech’s defense, and with Shiel Wood leading the charge, Red Raider fans have every reason to be optimistic about the unit’s potential to become a force in the Big 12 Conference. The test in Fort Worth will be an early and critical indicator of the progress made.
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