ESPN College Football

LUBBOCK, Texas -- Texas Tech could be without its top receiver this season following an NCAA ruling that denied a waiver for Jarrett Hicks' academic eligibility.

Earlier this month, Red Raiders coach Mike Leach acknowledged Hicks' eligibility issue when he said the senior receiver was missing practices to study for a test. He also said Hicks, who led the Big 12 in catches per game last season, was resting an injury.

No. 25 Texas Tech, which opens its season Saturday at home against SMU, has appealed the denial, football spokesman Chris Cook said.

Another receiver, freshman Mike Crabtree, is awaiting word on an appeal of his eligibility.

Leach said he's unsure when rulings might come.

"I've been told about a dozen things on that over the last couple of weeks," he said in Thursday's edition of the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. "I wish I did know, because it certainly would have improved our preparation and our direction starting the beginning of camp."

Crabtree's status is tied to the NCAA Clearinghouse, which certifies student-athletes to play sports.

Hicks, a starter since his sophomore year, is the Red Raiders' career leader in touchdown receptions with 28. He caught 65 passes for 850 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.

If Hicks can't play, sophomore Todd Walker and redshirt freshman Chris Cunigan could replace him.

Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press