While Christmas is still over a month away, senior Bailey Smith received an early present on Wednesday.

Smith committed to Texas Tech University to play as a offensive lineman after receiving an offer on Nov.18. Smith had been in contact with Texas Tech’s offensive line coach for a few months and had previously gone on to an unofficial visit to the university to see the football game versus Iowa State.

“Texas Tech is really where I wanted to play,” Smith said. “I just loved the atmosphere of the stadium and all of the fans. The coaches have been great and it’s just a good fit for me. Coach Hayes especially has been very honest with the recruiting process, making it all the better.”

A decommitment left the Red Raiders with an open space for offensive line recruitment. The coaches had seen Smith at camps and high school games before and decided to extend him an offer. Smith said he didn’t want to be anything else but a Red Raider which is why his acceptance came so quickly.

Smith has found a lot of support for his decision as his parents have been with him “100 perecent.” The football program is also backing Smith’s commitment to Texas Tech.

“I think he is going to do great things at Texas Tech and I am so very proud of him,” head coach Ryan Cox said. “He has a tremendous upside both physically and mentally. He will definitely make Texas Tech University a better place.”

With his college and football future decided, Smith now sets his focus on playoffs this coming weekend. Smith and the Lovejoy football team face Terrell High School on Saturday, Nov. 21 at Allen Eagle Stadium as part of the area playoff tournament.