March 12, 2009

LUBBOCK, Texas - On the heels of arguably the greatest season in Texas Tech Football history, the coaching staff had plenty of awards to hand out Thursday afternoon at the annual spring BBQ.

Cool temperatures moved the event inside the Football Training Facility, but reflections of Texas Tech's sizzling 11-2 campaign in 2008 provided the perfect atmosphere.

All-American quarterback Graham Harrell was named the team's most valuable player, while All-Americans wide receiver Michael Crabtree and offensive lineman Brandon Carter shared offensive MVP honors. Darcel McBath was selected as the defensive MVP.

Other awards were presented to running back J.J. Griffin (Academic Excellence), placekicker Matt Williams (Newcomer of the Year), center Stephen Hamby (Most Improved), linebacker Marlon Williams and running back Baron Batch (Most Conditioned), All-American offensive lineman Rylan Reed (Most Courageous), receiver Cornelius Douglas (Offensive Scout of the Year), defensive tackle Britton Barbee (Defensive Scout of the Year), safety Franklin Mitchem (Special Teams Player of the Year), Shannon Woods (Running Back of the Year), All-American Louis Vasquez (Offensive Lineman of the Year), Brandon Williams (Defensive Lineman of the Year, Eric Morris (Wide Receiver Player of the Year) and Brian Duncan (Linebacker of the Year).

Texas Tech begins spring workouts March 25 and will continue through April 20. The annual Red-Black Game is April 18.