West Virginia returns from its open week with one of its toughest tests of the season as the Mountaineers travel to Lubbock to face No. 13 Texas Tech.

WVU enters the matchup 5-3 after a 24-20 road win at TCU, putting the Mountaineers one victory away from bowl eligibility. But the challenge gets significantly tougher against a 7-1 Texas Tech team loaded with talent on both sides of the football.

The Red Raiders present a different challenge at quarterback with Thomas Castellanos, whose athleticism adds another dimension to the Texas Tech offense. WVU’s defense will have to remain disciplined against his ability to create plays with his legs while also respecting the Red Raiders’ passing attack.

Up front, Texas Tech features one of the most talented defensive fronts the Mountaineers have faced this season, with NFL-caliber players throughout a physical and productive unit.

After getting an opportunity to rest and reset during the open week, WVU knows it will need its best performance on both sides of the football to leave Lubbock with a win.