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Terrance Carter Jr. talks growth and team chemistry

IMG_2186by: J.Lopez10/16/25TTUPezidente
TC : Kansas
Terrance Carter Jr. touchdown vs Kansas

Texas Tech tight end Terrance Carter Jr. has emerged as a versatile weapon for the Red Raiders this season. Known for his pass-catching ability, Carter has worked to prove he’s just as reliable in the run game. Speaking with media after the Kansas win, he discussed his blocking progress, his bond with teammates, and the upcoming challenge against Arizona State.

Carter finding balance as a Tight End

Texas Tech tight end Terrance Carter Jr. continues to carve out a bigger role in the Red Raider offense, proving he can impact the game both through the air and in the run game. In the preseason, Carter set a personal standard: to become as dependable a blocker as he is a pass catcher. After the Kansas game, he said his confidence grew.

“I think it boosted a lot. I made a couple key blocks in the run game. I’m pretty happy for that,” Carter said. “My standard was to be an average tight end and be able to catch the ball and block.”

Known for his receiving skills, Carter emphasized how much he values contributing to the run game as well. “It just shows what type of team we have. We all care for each other. We want each other to have success. They’ll want me to go out there and catch a touchdown, and I want them to go run for a touchdown. So I’m going to block as hard as I have to for them, just like I know they would block for me.”

Texas Tech adjustments and accountability

Carter acknowledged that the Red Raiders started slow against Kansas, settling for field goals when touchdowns were possible. He credited adjustments made at halftime and the leadership of Behren Morton for helping the offense rebound.

“We started off a little slow. We had some times where we were in the red zone kicking field goals when we should have scored. Really it was about just going out there and playing the game that we know how to play,” Carter said. “You have Behren in there cheering us on, telling us, ‘Pick it up. That’s not the standard.’”

Despite the early struggles, Carter already has a career high in touchdowns this season through six games. He said personal accolades aren’t his focus. “It’s been fun. I don’t really look to the accolades until the season’s over. I’m just keeping the main thing the main thing.”

Carter’s early inspiration and daily battles

Carter also shared how Robert Griffin III inspired him while growing up near Baylor. “RG3 mentioned me, and we had a little chit chat. I grew up a fan. I wore number 10 in high school, playing quarterback. He was from college like 15 minutes away. I even went to camp while he was at Baylor. I didn’t get the chance to talk to him, but seeing him on the field, it was like, ‘I have to say something to him.’”

Another factor in his growth has been going against teammates in practice. “Them guys, they’re probably the best I ever go against in my career. I go against them almost every day. Mellow’s got too many moves, moving quickly. David, he’s just fast off the line. That’s hard to stop. I’m pretty quick myself, but it’s like David knows the snap count half the time.”

Chemistry with Behren and Will

Carter’s relationship with his quarterbacks has been pivotal to his development. He explained how his bond with Will began when the quarterback first stepped in during spring practices.

“Me and Will, we built a pretty close relationship when I first got here. Our bond shows on the field. I’m excited when he scores, he’s excited when I score. Even if he’s not on the field, I come to the sideline and Will’s one of the first guys to say something to me.”

He emphasized how both Will and Behren bring leadership to the field. “They’re both great QBs. They have a little different skill level. Will can run the ball better than Behren, and it opens up more stuff. But either one of them goes out there and leads the same way.”

Off the field, Carter has enjoyed seeing Will’s personality come through more. “When I first got here, he wasn’t really talkative. As the months have gone by, Will’s definitely gotten comfortable, showing his personality. Honestly, I blame Behren and Mitch, That’s a funny QB room. Anytime you’re around them, they put a smile on your face.”

Carter laughed that much of their off-field bond happens at the facility and even at the ping pong table. “I’d be beating up on him at ping pong, but that’s about it. We’re at the facility half the day, always together. It’s not just Will, though. I’m close with Behren too, and even with the younger players. We’re all around each other, building bonds.”

Final thoughts

From key run blocks to highlight-reel touchdowns, Terrance Carter Jr. has embraced the complete tight end role. His team-first mentality, willingness to go against elite defenders in practice, and chemistry with both quarterbacks make him a vital piece of Texas Tech’s offense.

As the Red Raiders turn their focus to Arizona State, Carter’s continued development as both a blocker and pass catcher could help push the unit to another level. His growth reflects not only individual progress, but also the culture of accountability and toughness that defines this Texas Tech team.


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