Texas Tech Red Raiders crack top 15 in Joel Klatt’s preseason poll - Red Raiders Wire

This early national attention means more than just bragging rights at your next backyard BBQ in Tech Terrace or over coffee near the South Plains Mall. It cranks up the energy for businesses along University Avenue and those spots in the Depot District that thrive on game day traffic, from Broadway to Mac Davis Lane. Local fans packing into Jones AT&T Stadium will certainly carry higher expectations for a winning season, which could mean bigger crowds and even more noise erupting on Saturday afternoons.

Tech hasn't started a season this high in the polls since 2008, when Mike Leach's team finished in the top 15 nationally.