Rooted in Grit: 2027 Southlake Carroll Offensive Tackle Tristan Dare Connects with Texas Tech’s Culture and Vision
In the ever-competitive world of Texas high school football, Southlake Carroll continues to produce elite talent year after year. One of the latest standouts is 2027 offensive tackle Tristan Dare, a name already making waves on the recruiting trail. With a powerful frame, refined technique, and a relentless drive to improve, Dare is attracting attention from Power Five programs across the country. But one school in particular—Texas Tech—is starting to stand out in his recruitment for reasons beyond football alone.
For Dare, it’s not just about flashy facilities or national TV time. It’s about culture. It’s about fit. And most importantly, it’s about finding a place that aligns with his values, work ethic, and long-term goals.
“Texas Tech feels real,” Dare said. “The coaching staff is down to earth, and they’re building something that’s based on toughness, discipline, and belief in their guys. That resonates with me.”
Dare, who stands at 6-foot-5 and tips the scales at 285 pounds, has become a cornerstone of Southlake Carroll’s offensive line. Known for his footwork and nasty streak in the trenches, he also brings a high football IQ and leadership qualities rarely seen in players his age. Coaches praise his consistency, humility, and commitment to his craft.
It’s those same qualities that drew the Red Raiders’ coaching staff to Dare early on. Offensive line coach Hamby and head coach Joey McGuire have both taken a hands-on approach with his recruitment, emphasizing not just his potential on the field but who he is off it.
“They’re not just looking for athletes,” Dare explained. “They want guys who are about the grind—guys who embrace adversity and want to be part of a brotherhood. That’s how we operate at Southlake, and it’s how I’ve always approached the game.”
Texas Tech’s brand of blue-collar football—rooted in West Texas grit—appeals to Dare’s own mentality. Raised in a competitive environment where nothing is given and everything is earned, Dare finds familiarity in the Red Raiders’ program identity. The connection is deeper than Xs and Os; it’s about shared values.
While Dare remains open in his recruitment, his bond with Texas Tech continues to strengthen. He’s visited Lubbock and left impressed with the campus, the coaching staff’s energy, and the program’s upward trajectory.
“The vibe is different there,” he said. “There’s a belief that they’re building something special, and they’re not afraid to do it their way.”
As he continues to develop his game and weigh his options, Dare is staying grounded, leaning on his family, coaches, and teammates. Recruiting is a whirlwind, but for this Southlake standout, the process is about finding the right fit, not just the biggest name.
With programs like Texas Tech emphasizing character and culture, Dare’s decision may ultimately come down to more than football—a perfect match of mindset and mission.
