LUBBOCK, Texas — Tommy Tuberville says he is certain he can take Texas Tech to new heights.

“There’s no doubt in my mind we can take it to the next level,” he said yesterday after being introduced as the coach of the Red Raiders.

He said he wants to improve Texas Tech’s defense and add a “few new wrinkles” to its pass-happy offense.

Tuberville replaces Mike Leach, who was fired last month amid allegations he mistreated a player who suffered a concussion.

Tuberville accepted the job Saturday and was expected to sign a contract later this week, officials said.

He stepped down at Auburn in December 2008, ending a 10-year tenure that included a perfect season and a string of teams that contended for Southeastern Conference championships.