Patrick Mahomes Praises Texas Tech’s Shiel Wood After Dominant Big 12 Title Win
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes lauded Texas Tech defensive coordinator Shiel Wood as the “best in the country” following the Red Raiders’ shutdown of BYU in the 2025 Big 12 Championship.
- Glenn Catubig
- 3 min read
Patrick Mahomes expressed what many college football fans were thinking during the 2025 Big 12 Championship Game: Texas Tech defensive coordinator Shiel Wood is exceptional. Watching his former team dismantle BYU’s offense, Mahomes highlighted Wood’s defensive mastery, calling him the “best in the country.”
Wood had been officially named a finalist for the Broyles Award, which honors the nation’s top assistant coach, just days before the championship. While Mahomes’ shoutout came four days late, it underscored the widespread recognition Wood has earned for transforming the Red Raiders’ defense.
The championship game itself was a showcase of Texas Tech’s defensive dominance. Despite BYU scoring on the opening drive, the Cougars never regained momentum, and Wood’s unit systematically shut down the opposition.
Under Wood, Texas Tech held BYU to 200 total yards, forced six turnovers, and limited quarterback Bear Bachmeier to 115 passing yards—his fewest since his collegiate debut. The performance cemented Wood’s reputation as one of college football’s most impactful coordinators.
1. Texas Tech’s Defensive Transformation
Shiel Wood joined Texas Tech’s staff under head coach Joey McGuire after serving as defensive coordinator at Houston for one season. Prior to that, he had steadily built a reputation as a defensive innovator, starting with Army in 2020. In just one season with the Red Raiders, Wood has completely reshaped the team’s defensive identity. Where Texas Tech had been known for offense-first football, Wood installed a disciplined, aggressive scheme that prioritizes turnovers and limiting big plays. BYU’s offense, which had been expected to challenge the Red Raiders, struggled immediately. The opening drive gave fans hope, but Wood’s adjustments quickly took control of the game. The defense forced four punts and six turnovers, demonstrating the depth and execution of his system. Wood’s defensive philosophy emphasizes speed, discipline, and situational awareness, turning talented but previously underutilized players into impact performers. The result is a Red Raiders squad capable of competing at the highest level in the Big 12.
2. Standout Performances and Impact
Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez emerged as a star under Wood’s guidance, with his playmaking ability making him a dark-horse Heisman Trophy candidate. The defensive scheme allowed Rodriguez to maximize his speed and instincts, creating opportunities for big plays. Quarterback Bear Bachmeier was limited to 115 passing yards, highlighting the effectiveness of Texas Tech’s coverage schemes and pass rush. BYU’s offensive line struggled to adjust, leaving the quarterback exposed and disrupting rhythm. Wood’s coaching extends beyond X’s and O’s; his ability to motivate and prepare players for high-pressure games has been evident all season. The Big 12 Championship was a prime example of his capacity to elevate a team when it matters most. Patrick Mahomes, a Texas Tech alum, has followed the program closely since leaving in 2017. Though known for his appreciation of the Red Raiders’ fast-paced offense, Mahomes acknowledged that Wood’s defensive approach was equally impressive and critical to the team’s success.
3. Broyles Award Recognition and Legacy
Being named a finalist for the Broyles Award confirms Wood’s standing among the nation’s elite assistant coaches. His rapid rise from Army to Houston and now Texas Tech demonstrates a clear trajectory of consistent improvement and leadership. The 2025 season represents a turning point for Texas Tech, showing that the program can compete not just with high-powered offenses but with disciplined, championship-level defense. Wood’s influence has made the team more balanced and resilient. For Mahomes and fans alike, Wood’s achievements serve as a reminder that assistant coaches play a pivotal role in shaping a program’s identity and success. His strategic mind and ability to develop players at all levels have transformed Texas Tech’s approach to the game. If Wood continues on this path, his legacy may include not only conference titles but also national recognition as one of the most innovative and effective defensive minds in college football.