Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire is in a frantic search for stability at quarterback. The unexpected departure of star Brendan Sorsby due to an off-field controversy has thrust Tulsa transfer Kirk Francis into the spotlight. Why? Because QB2 Will Hammond, who missed spring camp while recovering from a torn ACL, is still working his way back.
While the Lubbock faithful are eager to embrace their 3,045-yard QB in Francis, college football insider Chris Hummer has a bold take.
Chris Hummer Puts Joey McGuire and Texas Tech’s QB Situation in Perspective
Hummer, appearing on “CFB Insiders” on the CBS Sports College Football YouTube channel, took a deep dive into Francis’ history, revealing a more nuanced story than the box score suggests.
“Just fine with a caveat. I think especially early in the season when the schedule is really soft outside of Houston, Texas Tech will be fine,” Hummer noted. “Kirk Francis was benched last year, but he wasn’t necessarily benched entirely for play. He was benched because their offensive line was such an issue that they needed a more mobile quarterback.”
This context is vital for Red Raider fans. Francis isn’t necessarily a damaged-goods prospect.
He was a victim of circumstance in a system that couldn’t protect a traditional pocket passer. At Texas Tech, he won’t be asked to run for his life.
However, the caveat Hummer mentions isn’t just about Francis’ talent. It’s about the team surrounding him. Joey McGuire has built a roster that is, in many ways, quarterback-proof.
“And I think if you put Kirk Francis, who I’m not saying will be an All-Big 12 player by any means, if you put him in the context of Texas Tech’s system and especially Texas Tech’s offensive line and run game, both of which I expect to be elite for the Big 12 level… I think Kirk Francis is going to be fine.”
But perhaps the most blunt part of the reality check comes down to what Francis can actually contribute when the lights are brightest. In a league that now includes powerhouse programs and high-scoring offenses, can he win a shootout in November? Hummer doesn’t think so.
“Is he going to win you a lot of games? Probably not. Like, that’s not what you’re asking for. That’s not what you’re going to get out of Kirk Francis.”
For McGuire, this is the ultimate coaching challenge. He must manage a quarterback who is capable but limited, ensuring the game plan plays to the strengths of the 3,045-yard veteran without overextending him.
Earlier, Texas Tech had a 5% chance to win the national championship per the PFSN CFB Playoff Meter, but that is sure to dip. Now, the expectation will be to win the Big 12 and make the CFP.
