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Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire expects his young secondary, especially the safeties, to face a meaningful downfield passing test against Oregon State, while coordinator Shiel Wood emphasized coverage detail against the Beavers' challenging route combinations.

Oregon State quarterback Braden Atkinson threw for 387 yards against Houston and earned specific praise from Texas Tech's coaches for pocket confidence, keeping his eyes downfield under pressure and accurate placement into tight windows.

Oregon State produced six passing gains of at least 20 yards plus several more in the 15-to-20-yard range, with Wood crediting receiver speed and body control and a mixture of vertical routes, post-wheel action and underneath catches that became explosives.

Oregon State's four sacks allowed against Houston distorted the 26-yard net rushing total, according to McGuire, who viewed the running backs more favorably but identified third-down pressure and well-read screens as reasons the offense stalled.

Oregon State's defense was described by Texas Tech personnel as more base and less stunt-heavy than last season, with a large, physical front, sound tackling and strong pursuit rather than an especially exotic pressure scheme.