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Headline: Healthy Behren Morton Boosts Texas Tech’s CFP Hopes Against Oregon

Miami Gardens, FL – Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton is reporting himself to be fully healthy and ready to lead the No. 4 Red Raiders in their College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup against No. 5 Oregon. Morton, who has been battling a hairline fracture in his right fibula for much of the season, told reporters at Orange Bowl media day that the team’s 26-day layoff has allowed him to heal and fully participate in practices.

Morton revealed that he spent several weeks in a walking boot and played through significant pain after initially injuring his leg in October. He missed only two games. Despite the injury, he helped lead Texas Tech to its first outright conference title since 1955, throwing for 2,643 yards, 22 touchdowns, and only 4 interceptions on the season.

“This whole bowl prep has been really good for me,” Morton said. “I’ve been basically a hundred percent in practice… Just getting the body back to playing football again — it’s been a while since I’ve gotten to do that.”

With backup quarterback Will Hammond sidelined with a season-ending knee injury, Morton’s health is critical for Texas Tech’s success. He expressed increased confidence in his mobility and overall performance heading into the crucial game against Oregon, whose scoring defense ranks 10th nationally.

“When I’m healthy, I think the offense expands a lot,” Morton said. “We have so many playmakers though. It makes my job easy. If I can find them open and get the ball to them quickly, I think we can be pretty explosive.”

The Red Raiders, who led the nation in scoring margin during the regular season, are making their first-ever CFP appearance. They face off against the Ducks at 12 PM ET on Thursday, broadcast on ESPN.

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