Texas Tech Loses Backup QB Will Hammond to Season-Ending Injury

Texas Tech’s backup quarterback, Will Hammond, has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering a torn ACL in his right knee. This injury occurred during the No. 13 Red Raiders’ commanding 42-0 victory over Oklahoma State. Hammond, who was filling in for starter Behren Morton, sustained the injury in his second start.

With Texas Tech holding a record of 7-1 and a conference record of 4-1 in the Big 12, the team is preparing to face Kansas State on Saturday. Coach Joey McGuire expressed optimism about Hammond’s recovery, stating that while he may not participate in spring practice, he expects Hammond to return for the next season. Morton, a senior, is anticipated to be back on the field soon after dealing with his own knee issues earlier this season.

“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. “I feel real confident that he’ll have himself ready to go.”

The injury to Hammond shifts the backup role to Mitch Griffis, who is returning to football after a year away from the sport. Griffis, who previously played nine games at Wake Forest in 2023, stepped in after Hammond’s injury during the Oklahoma State game, throwing for a touchdown and rushing for another score.

Morton initially injured his knee in a dominant 67-7 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff and has since re-aggravated the injury in subsequent games. His return is crucial for Texas Tech as they aim for a strong finish in the Big 12 conference.

As the Red Raiders gear up for their upcoming match, the loss of Hammond is a significant setback, but the team remains hopeful for a successful remainder of the season and a swift recovery for their backup quarterback.