Patrick Mahomes is 100% realistic about the success of the Red Raiders

The Texas Tech Red Raiders football team was in the spotlight Saturday afternoon when the Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes returned to Lubbock for ESPN’s College GameDay. Two-time NFL MVP and the proud Red Raiders alum spoke candidly about the program’s rise under head coach Joey McGuire and its impressive 8-1 record, calling it proof that the Red Raiders are “rolling” again. Mahomes’ return sent college football into a frenzy, reminding fans how deeply connected he is to the Texas Tech program.

In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) by ESPN College GameDay, reporter Jess Sims asked Mahomes how it felt to be back on campus and how proud he was of his alma mater during his breakout season.

“Yeah, I’m just excited, you know. I wish I could have had this experience while I was here, but the Red Raiders are on the move and I’m glad to be back in Lubbock.”

.@jess_sims with Patrick Mahomes to discuss Texas Tech, the NIL and more ✍ pic.twitter.com/MK97PZFIK4

— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) November 8, 2025

Mahomes’ words captured the energy surrounding him Texas Tech football program, now ranked in the top 10 nationally and aiming to make its first Big 12 championship appearance since 2008. The star quarterback’s on-air enthusiasm reflected how far the program has come since his college days in Lubbock, when the Red Raiders were still rebuilding their identity.

above praise, Mahomes’ appearance on College GameDay in Lubbock symbolized a cultural shift — Texas Tech’s transformation from underdog to contender. The Red Raiders backed it up on the field, leading the No. 8 BIU Cougars 19-0 late in the third quarter. Under McGuire’s leadership, Texas Tech has reignited recruiting and fan confidence during one of its most promising seasons in nearly two decades. Mahomes’ return to Lubbock energized players and fans alike, reflecting the pride and progress that fueled Texas Tech football’s remarkable resurgence.

The homecoming wasn’t just a homecoming – it was a national support that confirmed the Red Raiders’ rise to prominence once again. For Texas Tech football, the message was unmistakable — the program Mahomes helped shape is now reaching its full potential.