Head football coach Gary Patterson and quarterback Jeff Ballard expressed their confidence Tuesday at the weekly Coaches’ Luncheon concerning the Frogs’ upcoming game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders on Saturday.While the Frogs lost to Tech 70-35 in Lubbock in the 2004 season, Patterson said he feels the Frogs are able to compete on Tech’s level this season.

“Two years ago, when we played Tech,” Patterson said, “I think we felt we had to do more than we were capable of to win the ball game. I don’t believe we have to do that anymore.”

Patterson said Tech can’t be shut down, but he said you have to control them and be able to play in the red zone.

“We know what we have in front of us,” Patterson said. “We haven’t played our best football either, and I think that’s what makes for a great ball game.”

Quarterback Jeff Ballard said he, as well as the rest of the team, are eager about the game against Tech.

“We’re excited to bring them into our house,” Ballard said.

The Frogs’ schedule allows them a 12-day break after the Tech game. Ballard said the team will be able to lay a lot more on the table for the game, which will be an emotional one because of Tech’s stature in the Big 12 Conference and the number of Red Raider and Frog fans the game is expected to bring.

Ballard also said he feels the Frogs could be considered one of the leading teams in the nation and is ready for the challenge of facing Tech.

“We’re going to play to our fullest ability,” Ballard said. “We’re going to put everything we’ve got into this game, no matter what the final score, outcome is.

Patterson said he was glad the Frogs had the UC Davis game in between the Baylor and Tech games, as it gave them more time to work as a team.

“I think we got a lot better in the UC Davis game,” Patterson said. “I think, with an off week, I’m not sure we improve as a football team.”

The TCU vs. Tech game has sold out Amon Carter Stadium this Saturday and the game is set to start at 4:30 p.m.