Texas Tech without star tight end Terrance Carter Jr. against Oregon State

The All-Big 12 second-teamer caught three passes for 28 yards in the season opener against Abilene Christian, and folks around Lubbock had circled him as one of the Red Raiders' key weapons heading into 2026. A pregame report from Lubbock's KCBD first flagged the boot, and the university confirmed the absence before the Beavers game.

Carter isn't the only name missing. Tech's injury report also lists EDGE Trey White, safety Brenden Jordan, cornerback Ashton Hampton and offensive lineman Elias Gillen as out for Saturday.

For Tech fans watching from Jones AT&T Stadium or catching the game on TV, the injury report reshuffles what was supposed to be a straightforward tune-up. White's absence opens the door for 5-star freshman EDGE LaDamion Guyton to see real snaps, giving the coaching staff an early look at a player who came in with plenty of hype. Carter's absence puts more pressure on Tech's other tight ends and receivers to make up the lost production.

Four starters down before a single snap against Oregon State, and the guy replacing one of them hasn't played a college game yet.