Air Raid Revival: Why Sorsby and Simmons are Perfect Fits for Kittley

LUBBOCK, Texas — For the past two seasons, Texas Tech's offense often ran through the legs of Tahj Brooks. It was effective, winning a Big 12 title. But with Brooks gone, Offensive Coordinator Zach Kittley is signaling a clear shift back to his roots.

The additions of Cincinnati QB Brendan Sorsby and Auburn WR Malcolm Simmons aren't just depth pieces — they are the catalysts for the revived "Air Raid."

Sorsby vs. Morton: The Arm Talent Upgrade

While Behren Morton managed games efficiently, Sorsby brings a different element: pure arm talent and vertical aggression.

• Deep Ball Efficiency: Sorsby ranked in the top 10 nationally in completions over 20 yards last season at Cincinnati.
• Fit for Kittley: Kittley's system thrives when the QB threatens the entire field. Sorsby's ability to drive the ball outside the numbers unlocks the playbook.

Malcolm Simmons: Speed to Burn

Paired with Josh Kelly (who returns for his Super Senior year), Malcolm Simmons gives Tech true elite SEC speed. Projected WR Rotation:

• X: Josh Kelly
• Z: Malcolm Simmons
• H: Coy Eakin / Micah Hudson

This trio gives Sorsby three distinct targets: the reliable veteran (Kelly), the burner (Simmons), and the route technician (Eakin).

Depth Chart Takeaway

The Sorsby-Simmons pairing matters because it clarifies how Texas Tech can replace Brooks' down-to-down reliability. Instead of asking one back to carry the offensive identity, Kittley can use spacing, tempo, and vertical stress to manufacture lighter boxes and easier reads.

That does not erase the need for balance. The running back and tight end rooms still have to protect Sorsby and keep defenses honest on early downs. If Tech cannot find a dependable pass-protection back, the Air Raid revival becomes more fragile against pressure-heavy Big 12 opponents.

Verification Notes

This projection assumes the staff gives Sorsby a real path to the QB1 job, but spring competition still matters. We will track first-team reps, receiver pairings, and whether Simmons is used strictly outside or moved around as a motion and slot-speed piece.

The Verdict

Texas Tech isn't rebuilding; they are reloading with a more aggressive offensive philosophy. The 2026 Red Raiders are going to throw the ball — a lot. And with Sorsby pulling the trigger, they might just lead the Big 12 in passing yards.