Tommy Castellanos’ place in Texas Tech’s offense remains uncertain after two games that have produced both scoring plays and a costly mistake. The veteran passer has three touchdowns this season, including a three-yard rushing score against Houston, along with an interception on an attempted throwaway in that game.
Castellanos joined Texas Tech late in preseason camp as an emergency option behind starting quarterback Will Hammond. Hammond is still recovering from a torn ACL, but coach Joey McGuire has said Hammond remains the starter. The team has used Castellanos in selected packages, including red-zone situations, rather than making him the full-time quarterback.
Against Houston, Castellanos opened the game at quarterback and threw an interception on the first play. He later returned for red-zone duties and scored during the second quarter. The source described his usage as a mix of gadget plays and backup responsibilities, with results that have varied from productive to unsuccessful.
Adding Castellanos came after the transfer portal had closed and Brendan Sorsby’s situation had been resolved, when Texas Tech needed another capable backup. How often Castellanos plays going forward, and whether his red-zone role expands, remains unclear. Sports Illustrated writer Pat Forde included the quarterback’s season-long role among his 10 questions that could help define the college football season.
Texas Tech’s offensive struggles have added attention to the decision. The source said the team’s playoff outlook could depend in part on how effectively Castellanos performs if he continues receiving opportunities. Further details about any change to the quarterback arrangement were not provided.
