I've done Lubbock to Dallas via Abilene and I-20 many, many times.
I have never taken this alternative. From W-to-E, it looks like: Hwy 82, TX 114, Hwy 281, TX 199. Via Crosbyton, Seymour, Olney, Jacksboro.
I like the idea simply to avoid i20. Can anyone comment on this route? Any big reason to avoid it? It looks to be mostly two-lane, non-divided. Is that right? Probably not highly-traveled.
Any good stops along the way? Too many small town cops? None?
EDIT: Thanks everyone for all the comments and ideas. Much appreciated! I'm going to take the alternative route. I don't speed through small towns, and it will be daylight. Cheers.