Texas Tech University has a long football tradition marked by exceptional talent and unforgettable accomplishments. Over the years, the Red Raiders have produced numerous outstanding players who have made significant impacts at both the collegiate and professional levels. As the 2024 football season begins at Texas Tech, we celebrate the top 10 players in Red Raiders history.

1. Zach Thomas (LB, 1992-1995)

Zach Thomas is one of the most legendary linebackers in Texas Tech football history. Known for his tenacity, intelligence, and tackling ability, Thomas was a two-time All-American and was named Southwest Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 1995. He finished his college career with 390 tackles, 20 sacks, and 6 interceptions.

Thomas’ most memorable moment came in 1995 when he intercepted a pass from Texas A&M’s Corey Pullig and returned it for a game-winning touchdown. His leadership skills and tireless work ethic set the standard for future Red Raiders defensive linemen. Thomas went on to a Hall of Fame career in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins, where he was selected to the Pro Bowl seven times and was named First-Team All-Pro five times.

Patrick Mahomes is one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in Texas Tech history. Known for his incredible arm strength, athleticism and playmaking ability, Mahomes set numerous records during his time with the Red Raiders. In 2016, he led the nation in passing yards (5,052) and total touchdowns (53).

Mahomes’ most memorable performance came in a 2016 game against Oklahoma, where he threw for 734 yards and totaled 819 yards – both NCAA records. His ability to extend plays and make jaw-dropping throws captivated fans and scouts alike. Mahomes was selected 10th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs and quickly became one of the league’s best quarterbacks and a multiple Super Bowl winner.

3. Donny Anderson (RB/P, 1963–1965)

Donny Anderson, known as the “Golden Palomino,” was one of the most versatile players in Texas Tech football history. As a running back and punter, Anderson’s dual-player skills were critical to the Red Raiders’ success in the mid-1960s. He was a two-time All-American and finished fourth in the 1965 Heisman Trophy balloting.

Anderson’s all-around skills were on full display during his college career. He ran for over 2,200 yards, caught 100 passes for over 1,000 yards, and was also an exceptional punter, averaging 41.7 yards per punt. His versatility and consistent performance earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame. Anderson went on to have a successful NFL career with the Green Bay Packers and St. Louis Cardinals.

Michael Crabtree is arguably the most talented wide receiver in Texas Tech history. In just two seasons with the Red Raiders, Crabtree has broken numerous records and established himself as one of the best receivers in college football. He won the Biletnikoff Award, given to the nation’s best receiver, in 2007 and 2008 and was unanimously selected as an All-American both years.

Crabtree’s most famous moment came in 2008, when he caught a last-second touchdown pass against Texas, leading the Red Raiders to a dramatic victory and cementing his place in Texas Tech history. He finished his college career with 231 passes caught, 3,127 yards and 41 touchdowns. Crabtree went on to have a successful NFL career, most notably with the San Francisco 49ers and Oakland Raiders.

5. EJ Holub (C/LB, 1958-1960)

EJ Holub was a dominant force on both sides of the ball for Texas Tech. As a center and linebacker, his versatility and toughness made him a standout player in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He was a two-time All-American and the first player in school history to have his jersey retired.

Holub’s impact on the game was enormous, as he excelled on both offense and defense. His leadership and exceptional play earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame. Holub had a successful professional career, most notably with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he played in two Super Bowls and was a key player on their 1969 championship team.

6. Gabe Rivera (DT, 1979–1982)

Gabe Rivera, nicknamed “Senor Sack,” is one of the most dominant defensive linemen in Texas Tech football history. Known for his strength, agility and relentless pursuit of the quarterback, Rivera was selected as an All-American in 1982. He finished his college career with 321 tackles, 34 tackles for loss and 14 sacks.

Rivera’s impact on the field was profound as he consistently disrupted opposing offenses and made big plays at crucial moments. His performance earned him a first-round selection in the 1983 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Although his professional career was cut short by a tragic car accident, Rivera’s legacy as one of the best defensive players in Texas Tech history remains intact.

7. Byron Hanspard (RB, 1994–1996)

Byron Hanspard is one of the most successful running backs in Texas Tech history. Hanspard is known for his speed, vision and ability to break tackles. During his college career, he rushed for over 4,200 yards and scored 34 touchdowns. In 1996, he won the Doak Walker Award as the nation’s best running back and was widely recognized as an All-American.

Hanspard’s most memorable season was 1996, when he rushed for 2,084 yards, becoming only the fourth player in NCAA history to surpass 2,000 yards in a single season. His performance helped the Red Raiders to a 7-5 record and a bowl appearance. Hanspard later played in the NFL for the Atlanta Falcons, where he continued to showcase his exceptional talent.

8th. Billy Joe Tolliver (quarterback, 1985–1988)

Billy Joe Tolliver was one of the most prolific passers in Texas Tech history. Known for his strong arm and ability to make big plays, Tolliver set numerous school records during his time with the Red Raiders. He finished his college career with over 7,000 passing yards and 48 touchdowns.

Tolliver’s most memorable performance came in a 1986 game against TCU, where he threw for 422 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Red Raiders to a thrilling victory. His success at Texas Tech paved the way for a long professional career in the NFL, where he played for several teams and continued to showcase his impressive passing skills.

9. Wes Welker (WR/PR, 2000-2003)

Wes Welker is one of the most versatile and productive players in Texas Tech history. As a wide receiver and punt returner, Welker was a constant threat on the field thanks to his speed, running ability and football IQ. He finished his college career with 259 receptions, 3,019 receiving yards and 21 receiving touchdowns, as well as eight punt return touchdowns.

Welker’s most memorable moment came in a 2002 game against Texas, where he caught nine passes for 120 yards and a touchdown, leading the Red Raiders to an upset victory. His success at Texas Tech led to a highly successful NFL career, most notably with the New England Patriots, where he became one of the league’s most reliable receivers and punt returners.

10. Baron Batch (RB, 2006–2010)

Baron Batch was a standout running back for Texas Tech, known for his versatility, vision and ability to excel as both a runner and receiver. Batch finished his college career with 2,501 rushing yards, 1,311 receiving yards and 32 total touchdowns. During his tenure, he was a key player in the Red Raiders’ high-powered offense.

Batch’s most memorable performance was in the 2009 Alamo Bowl against Michigan State, where he ran for 99 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown. His consistent performance and ability to make big plays at crucial moments made him a fan favorite and one of the best running backs in Texas Tech history.