A New Chapter for Shiel Wood
At Sunday night’s practice, Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire shared a lighthearted moment with defensive coordinator Shiel Wood, referencing his return to Houston. McGuire joked about pushing Wood’s buttons and urging him not to make the upcoming Big 12 matchup between UH and No. 11 Texas Tech at TDECU Stadium about himself.
Wood took the comment seriously, keeping his focus on the game rather than his personal history with the University of Houston (UH). During Monday’s press conference in Lubbock, Wood remained tight-lipped about his return to UH or his relationship with former coach Willie Fritz, who he worked with at Tulane before joining UH last season.
Wood’s defense made a significant impact during his one season with the Cougars, finishing ranked in the top 25 nationally. When asked about returning to Houston, Wood emphasized the team’s focus on process over outcomes.
“The good thing for us is we are a processed-driven ball club,” Wood said. “When you focus on that it doesn’t matter who the opponent is or the situation, we’re just trying to do a great job with our game plan.”
When pressed on what Fritz had taught him, Wood reflected on the experience. “I’ve enjoyed every place that I’ve worked and have learned a lot from every experience I’ve had. I would say I’ve enjoyed working at this place more than any other institution I’ve worked at, although I’ve been here a brief amount of time.”
Wood also highlighted the importance of organization and attention to detail, which he credits to Fritz’s influence. His arrival brought immediate improvements to the UH defense, moving the team from 105th nationally in scoring defense to 40th and from 112th in total defense to 25th.
Last December, Fritz mentioned that financial considerations played a role in UH’s inability to retain Wood. “They were offering a heck of a lot more,” Fritz said. “That’s something we cannot do.” Wood now earns $1.2 million this season, a significant increase from his $750,000 salary at UH.
Recognition and Updates
Linebacker Sione Fotu was named co-Big 12 defensive player of the week after posting a career-high 15 tackles in Friday’s 27-24 overtime win against Oregon State. This marked the most tackles by a UH linebacker since Austin Robinson had 21 against Navy in 2018.
Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton cleared concussion protocol and returned to practice on Sunday. Morton slid head-first into contact with Utah linebacker Johnathan Hall during the Red Raiders’ third quarter against Utah on Sept. 20. He was replaced by backup Will Hammond for the remainder of the 34-10 victory.
Meanwhile, UH running back J’Marion Burnette, who has missed the last three games due to a thumb injury, is available for Saturday’s game against Texas Tech. Coach Willie Fritz noted that Burnette could have played last week but is gradually regaining mobility. Tight end Jayden York underwent surgery for an undisclosed injury and is expected to miss the rest of the season.
Game Day Expectations
Another packed crowd is anticipated at TDECU Stadium for Saturday’s showdown between unbeaten UH and Texas Tech. UH will wear its alternate Houston Blue jersey, though Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire hopes to see plenty of red in the stands.
“Expecting a sold-out crowd,” McGuire said. “We’re hoping at least half of that crowd are Red Raiders and we make a lot of noise and hear a lot of ‘Raider Power’ chants during the game.”
Upcoming Matchup Against Oklahoma State
UH’s Oct. 11 game against Oklahoma State at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Okla., will kick off at 11 a.m. This will be the first time UH plays on TNT, with J.B. Long and Mike Golic Jr. calling the game. The contest will also be simulcast on truTV and HBO Max.
The all-time series between the two schools is tied 10-10-1. This will be the Cougars’ first trip to Stillwater since their 2009 upset victory over the fifth-ranked Cowboys, 45-35.
