Joey McGuire Frustrated After Texas Tech’s Stunning Loss to Washington State: “We Have Been Our Own Worst Enemy”

After a heartbreaking loss to Washington State in Pullman, Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire didn’t hold back his frustration. His Red Raiders had just dropped a game they were more than capable of winning, and instead of pointing fingers, he took full responsibility.

“I’m really discouraged right now, because for two games, we have been our own worst enemy. We can’t get out of our own way. And when I say we, it starts with me.”

McGuire’s words paint a clear picture of a team struggling to find its identity. While Texas Tech had flashes of brilliance, self-inflicted mistakes and missed opportunities ultimately led to another painful defeat. For a program that entered the season with high expectations, back-to-back losses have raised serious concerns.

So what exactly went wrong for Texas Tech against Washington State? And how does McGuire plan to turn things around? Let’s break it down.

Texas Tech’s Painful Loss: What Went Wrong?

1. Costly Turnovers and Mental Errors

If there’s one thing that defines a team as its own worst enemy, it’s turnovers and penalties—and Texas Tech had plenty of both.

Against Washington State, the Red Raiders:

• Committed multiple turnovers in crucial moments.
• Made costly penalties that stalled drives and extended Washington State possessions.
• Struggled with execution in key situations, making unforced mistakes that gifted the Cougars extra opportunities.

These self-inflicted wounds are exactly what McGuire was referring to in his postgame frustration. No matter how talented a team is, you can’t win games when you beat yourself.

2. Missed Opportunities in the Red Zone

Texas Tech moved the ball well at times, but their inability to finish drives was a major factor in the loss. They settled for field goals when they needed touchdowns, and in a tight game, those missed points made all the difference.

For a team that prides itself on aggressive, fast-paced offensive football, coming away empty-handed or settling for three points instead of seven is unacceptable.

3. Defensive Struggles at Key Moments

While the Red Raiders’ defense had its moments, they failed to come up with the big stops when it mattered most.

• Third-down conversions allowed Washington State to extend drives.
• Missed tackles led to explosive plays.
• Poor situational awareness let the Cougars capitalize on Texas Tech’s mistakes.

McGuire has always emphasized playing tough, disciplined football, but the Red Raiders looked out of sync defensively, especially late in the game.

McGuire’s Leadership: Taking Responsibility for the Loss

Unlike some coaches who might deflect blame onto players or referees, McGuire took full responsibility.

His postgame comments weren’t just about frustration; they were about holding himself accountable before holding his team accountable. That’s the mark of a strong leader.

“When I say we, it starts with me.”

This is exactly why McGuire has been so well respected since taking over in Lubbock. He knows that coaching is just as much about fixing mental mistakes as it is about calling plays.

The Red Raiders are beating themselves, and it’s his job to change that culture before the season spirals further downward.

Where Does Texas Tech Go From Here?

1. Cleaning Up Mental Mistakes

If Texas Tech wants to turn things around, the first priority has to be discipline. That means:

• Fixing penalties that are killing drives.
• Protecting the football and eliminating unnecessary risks.
• Staying composed in key moments instead of making costly errors.

McGuire knows his team is talented enough to compete with anyone, but talent means nothing if you’re shooting yourself in the foot every week.

2. Finishing Drives in the Red Zone

Offensive coordinator Zach Kittley needs to adjust the game plan to ensure Texas Tech is capitalizing on scoring chances. That means:

• More creative play-calling inside the 20-yard line.
• Better execution from the offensive line to protect the quarterback and create running lanes.
• Trusting playmakers to deliver in crunch time.

3. Defensive Adjustments

The Red Raiders have been inconsistent on defense, showing flashes of dominance but also giving up critical plays. Fixing this requires:

• More aggressive pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
• Better tackling in space to prevent big gains.
• Stronger communication to avoid breakdowns in coverage.

Can Texas Tech Bounce Back?

Despite the back-to-back losses, McGuire is not the type of coach to let a season spiral out of control. His ability to rally his team and refocus their energy will be tested, but if anyone can do it, it’s him.

Why There’s Still Hope for the Red Raiders

• They have the talent – The roster is full of high-potential players who can compete at a high level.
• McGuire’s leadership – He’s not making excuses, and his accountability will set the tone for improvement.
• The season is far from over – If Texas Tech corrects these mistakes quickly, they can still make a strong push in conference play.

However, if the Red Raiders don’t fix their issues soon, the season could take a turn for the worse.

Final Thoughts: Time for Texas Tech to Get Out of Its Own Way

Joey McGuire’s postgame comments weren’t just about one game—they were about a pattern of self-inflicted mistakes that need to stop immediately.

“We have been our own worst enemy.”

If Texas Tech wants to live up to the preseason hype, they need to stop beating themselves and start playing smart, disciplined football.

McGuire is the right coach to lead this turnaround, but now it’s on the players to respond. The next few weeks will define whether the Red Raiders can bounce back—or if this season will be a disappointment.