Texas Tech’s Defensive Overhaul: McBath Promoted as McGuire Reshapes Coaching Staff
Texas Tech’s football program is undergoing a significant coaching shake-up as head coach Joey McGuire continues to restructure his defensive staff. One of the latest and most notable moves is the promotion of Darcel McBath to cornerbacks coach, a decision that has sparked debate among Red Raiders fans.
McBath’s New Role and Background
McBath, a former Texas Tech standout defensive back, had been serving as a defensive analyst for the Red Raiders before earning this promotion. His elevation to cornerbacks coach is part of McGuire’s strategy to split the defensive backs coaching duties, with Rob Greene now overseeing the safeties. This move signals a fresh approach to improving Texas Tech’s secondary, which has struggled in recent seasons against high-powered Big 12 offenses.
McBath’s coaching career has been impressive, featuring stops at Washington State and Mississippi State, where he helped develop NFL-caliber talent such as Martin Emerson and Emmanuel Forbes. Forbes, in particular, was a standout under McBath’s guidance, becoming a first-round NFL Draft pick in 2023. McBath’s experience as both a player and coach brings credibility to his new role, and his familiarity with the Texas Tech program adds a layer of continuity to McGuire’s evolving coaching staff.
McGuire’s Vision for Texas Tech’s Defense
Head coach Joey McGuire has made it clear that upgrading the Red Raiders’ defense is a top priority. With Texas Tech aiming to compete at the highest level in the Big 12, the team’s secondary needed a revamp, and McBath’s promotion is a key component of that plan.
McGuire praised McBath’s abilities, stating, “I’ve been impressed with Coach McBath since his arrival on our staff this past season. He has a proven track record of developing top-tier cornerbacks and will be a tremendous asset to our defensive staff.”
By splitting the defensive backs coaching duties, McGuire is taking a more specialized approach to player development. This could lead to better coverage schemes, improved fundamentals, and ultimately, a more competitive defense. However, not all fans are convinced that promoting from within is the best path forward. Some believe that bringing in external coaching talent with fresh perspectives would have been a better choice.
Fan Reactions and Program Expectations
The Red Raider fanbase is divided over the move. Many supporters see McBath’s promotion as a smart decision, given his deep ties to the program and his track record of success. Others, however, worry that internal promotions may not bring the drastic improvements needed to take Texas Tech to the next level.
McBath’s ability to develop cornerbacks will be under intense scrutiny as the Red Raiders prepare for the upcoming season. Texas Tech’s secondary has been a weakness in recent years, allowing too many big plays in key matchups. If McBath can mold a more disciplined and effective group, his promotion will be seen as a success. But if the defense continues to struggle, McGuire’s decision-making will come under fire.
The upcoming season will be a crucial test for McGuire’s defensive overhaul. The Red Raiders are looking to build on last season’s performance and make a push for a Big 12 title. With McBath now in charge of the cornerbacks, all eyes will be on the secondary’s development.
McGuire’s defensive strategy will be tested early in the season, especially against high-octane offenses. If Texas Tech’s defense shows marked improvement, McBath’s promotion will be viewed as a masterstroke. If not, fans will continue to debate whether a different approach should have been taken.