Kicker's Transfer Portal Dilemma After Bowl Game

As the Texas Tech Red Raiders prepare for the Orange Bowl, kicker Upton Bellenfant faces a unique scheduling conflict with the opening of the transfer portal. The portal commences on January 2, immediately following the team's crucial playoff quarterfinal game, presenting an inconvenient decision window for players considering a transfer.

Bellenfant, a redshirt junior, has played a role for the Red Raiders this season, converting all six of his field goal attempts and 14 of 16 extra points. He also contributes significantly to the team's kickoff duties. Despite the impending transfer portal, Bellenfant has indicated his gratitude for his time in Lubbock and his intention to remain with the team as long as NCAA regulations permit.

Having previously played for Buffalo, where he earned All-MAC Third Team honors, Bellenfant was a highly-rated transfer. However, the competitive kicking landscape at Texas Tech, with multiple redshirt juniors vying for the primary role, has likely influenced his decision. The team anticipates that established kicker Stone Harrington will continue as the starter, potentially pushing Bellenfant to seek opportunities elsewhere after the bowl game.