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Matt Wells addressed the media on Tuesday, focusing on the upcoming Big 12 Conference opener against Texas at 11 a.m. on Saturday.

Here are some takeaways from what he had to say:

-- Wells said it's a strength vs. strength deal when it comes to stopping the Texas rushing attack. To slow down Bijan Robison, the Red Raiders need to be ready on the defensive line and at linebacker. All three Texas running backs are capable of bringing different aspects to the Longhorn run game.

-- On defense, Texas Tech wants to control its effort and attitude to play hard in stopping the run. He wants the Red Raiders to populate the ball. Since Wells and Co. took the job at Texas Tech, the coaches have emphasized not missing tackles. They've coached technique and running to the ball carrier.

-- Tyler Shough was a bit banged up after the Florida International game, specifically with his knee. He is fine and good to go. Expect SaRodorick Thompson also to play more than 10 snaps in the Big 12 opener. All the running backs will get carries, but more will be given to the hot-hand runner.

-- Wells said last year's game is behind them, but his team does remember it. The Red Raiders remember what they did wrong in the Texas comeback in 2020. He said last year, Texas Tech put itself in front of the Longhorns, but found a way to drop that. The Red Raiders focus on starting strong, then making sure to not make crucial mistakes.

-- Wells views every week as a benchmark to see where his team is at. It doesn't need to be a conference game to evaluate, Wells said. Every game is a test to get better. On a similar but different note, Wells was asked if Oklahoma and Texas moving to the SEC adds more to this game: "Only for (the media.) It's the first time I thought about it in 3-4 days."

-- Wells said he thinks Texas' defensive front is the best the Red Raiders have faces to this point and will be a big challenge for his team's offensive line.

-- TCU has handled Texas over the past years, which means Sonny Cumbie's experience with Texas is a plus. However, they have different people in different roles that can help in game planning, prep, etc. The difference is a new coach and new schemes will be in play. A whole lot of knowledge is now player-driven in a game like this.

-- Wells said it would be great for Tech and Texas to extend a home-and-home agreement after the Longhorns depart for the SEC. He said Lubbock and the city's businesses would get a a tremendous benefit if the series continues.

-- Wells said his team has practiced mastering situations in practice such as winning close games, coming back, etc. He said improvement has been shown in the non-conference slate already.

-- Time of possession is always important with 4 minutes left in the game. But, if he had to choose between time of possession and scoring points, Wells said he would take the points. Combining the lead and having the time of possession on your side is obviously ideal.