Douglas talks mentorship, chasing perfection with Red Raiders
From 2018 memories to Red Raider fall camp spotlight
When Caleb Douglas was asked what he was doing in 2018 — the last time Red Raiders were ranked — he had to think back. He was in grade 10, not attending school, and far removed from the college football spotlight. But even then, his passion for the game was clear, and the path that would eventually lead him to Lubbock was already taking shape.
Why option routes and quarterback chemistry matter
As a receiver, Douglas thrives on precision, especially when it comes to option routes. He emphasizes the importance of reading the defense and syncing with his quarterback in real time.
“It’s about communication,” Douglas explained. “Option routes give you flexibility. If the quarterback sees something, you’ve got to be able to adjust instantly. That trust is everything.”
On-field and off-field bond with Bryson Jones
One of those receivers is Bryson Jones, a player Douglas knows well — both on and off the field. With similar body types and an easy on-field rapport, the two have become natural partners in the offense. But it’s their off-field connection, forged during team dinners and camps, that Douglas says truly elevates their chemistry.
“That bond matters,” he said. “When you can trust each other outside of football, it makes the in-game connection that much stronger.”
Pushed by Red Raider defensive backroom
Competition is never far away in Lubbock. Douglas credits the defensive backroom for pushing him daily, noting that practice intensity can swing depending on the day. That push-and-pull has been instrumental in his growth.
Coach White’s impact on the receiver room
At the heart of it all is Coach White, a figure Douglas describes as uniquely equipped to lead because of his dual perspective as both a coach and a former player.
“He understands what we’re going through,” Douglas said. “He’s not always that strict, hard coach — he knows when to connect, when to push, and how to break things down. A lot of that comes from his own experience under Coach Juice.”
Scrimmage takeaways: explosive, but room to improve
Looking back at the team’s recent scrimmage, Douglas didn’t hesitate to call the offense “explosive,” with the run and pass game both clicking. Still, he’s quick to point out that the Red Raiders aren’t anywhere near satisfied.
“It’s the little things,” Douglas said. “Stacking receivers after you beat them, making better decisions — that’s what separates good from great. The best in the NFL get the small details right every time.”
Chasing perfection in Lubbock
For Douglas, it’s not just about making plays — it’s about building the kind of consistency that makes him a trusted weapon when the game’s on the line.
“We’re chasing perfection,” he said with a grin. “And that means getting better every single day.”
