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Sunday, July 27, 2025
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The GM Behind Texas Tech’s NIL Empire

Texas Tech general manager James Blanchard joins Adam Breneman to break down how he helped turn the Red Raiders into one of the most well-resourced, forward-thinking programs in college football. 

He shares what a day in the life of a GM looks like, how Texas Tech built the No. 1 transfer portal class, and why NIL (name, image, and likeness) has completely changed the landscape. Blanchard explains the NFL-style structure of their front office and how they evaluate players before they even enter the portal. He also talks about turning down the Notre Dame job, building a $250 million football “resort,” and what it will take to bring a Big 12 title to Lubbock.

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