Injury Scare for Joey McGuire as Behren Morton Leaves Field After Taking a Hit vs UAPB

Texas Tech fans have come to expect a certain level of grit, and quarterback Behren Morton has certainly delivered under coach Joey McGuire. But football isn’t about narratives. And that’s exactly what’s happening with Morton who took a low hit from UAPB’s Tayvon Hardwick and immediately limped, causing Tech fans to fear the worst. The senior signal-caller has battled through injuries since December 2024, fighting through setbacks and grinding hard to make his farewell season a success. Both teammates and coaches raved about his progress during the offseason, making the Red Raiders feel secure with him at the helm. But just as things were looking up, Morton left the field in the season opener against UAPB. That’s not the final good-bye Red Raider’s been hoping for.

Texas Tech senior quarterback Behren Morton entered this season determined to prove he could stay healthy and perform in his final year. He’d had shoulder surgery after the 2024 season, spent months recovering, and even arrived at fall camp with an ankle sprain that could have sidelined him. Instead, he persevered, embraced new offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich’s system, and stated unequivocally that he felt his best since 2022. Through weight training, film study, and finally practicing without worrying about every hit, Morton seemed and sounded ready to lead the team.

Don Williams came out with a post on X and let it out that Morton left the sideline with medical staff but thankfully he didn’t need any assistance. It all took place when Morton was hit low by UAPB’s safety-linebacker Tayvon Hardwick in the second quarter, who came from the side and hit Morton’s right leg. The play resulted in a roughing-the-passer call, and Morton seemed hurt limping his feet. But true to form, Morton played the very next play, which resulted in a touchdown run by J’Koby Williams. It was a display of toughness, yet it also felt like the football gods are not done testing him.

Following the play, Morton headed to the sideline for a quick consultation with head coach Joey McGuire and the medical staff. They escorted him up the ramp for further examination. Unexpectedly, Morton returned shortly after, walking unassisted, and rejoined the quarterbacks near offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich. At halftime, McGuire calmed fans on the Tech radio broadcast, stating, “Yeah, he’s good. He’s good.” Morton’s swift return was a huge relief for the Red Raiders.

Before the injury, he’d had a near-perfect first half, completing 16 of 18 passes for 201 yards and four touchdowns. He connected with tight end Terrance Carter Jr. twice, and wide receivers Reggie Virgil and Coy Eakin each once. His performance helped build a dominant 37-0 lead, allowing Will Hammond to take over late in the second quarter. Even if the game eventually halted at halftime due to weather, but Morton had already made his impact. Now, whenever the game resume it’s a new face that will lead Joey McGuire’s offense.

That’s right after Morton limped off the field, freshman quarterback Will Hammond took over to lead the Red Raiders just before halftime. Morton had played through some earlier hits but couldn’t finish the half, leaving the offense to Hammond after Tech forced a turnover. With 7:01 remaining in the second quarter, Hammond gathered the team, ready to keep the momentum going. His arrival injected energy into the team and the crowd, setting the tone for Tech’s performance in the second half. But he wasn’t the only one who got injured during the game.

Joey McGuire’s season opener turns into a injury ground

With the game well in hand, Texas Tech’s 2025 season opener against Arkansas-Pine Bluff saw an unusual delay in the second quarter when an official was injured. The incident occurred with 6:46 remaining in the half, as running back J’Koby Williams ran up the middle. UAPB’s Ja’il Johnson tackled him, but his legs accidentally struck the referee, sending him to the ground. The game was stopped for several minutes while medical personnel attended to the official before he was taken off the field at Jones AT&T Stadium.

Despite the interruption, Texas Tech’s offense didn’t miss a beat. Williams’ run sparked a drive that ended in a field goal, increasing the Red Raiders’ already substantial lead to 40-0. And the official’s injury caused the second significant delay, contributing to a chaotic first half that already saw Morton briefly leave the game and a potential weather suspension. Despite these challenges, the Red Raiders demonstrated impressive depth and explosiveness, showing they could overcome adversity.

The defense stifled UAPB’s offense, preventing them from scoring in the first half and limiting their chances. Upfront pressure caused errors, and strong coverage in the secondary shut things down, enabling Tech to dominate possession. Fans on social media lauded the defensive performance, particularly the Red Raiders’ cornerbacks, whom they hailed as “the best in the nation” after a dominant showing. Now, whenever the game resumes it will be interesting to see how Hammond leads the team.