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Linebackers are often viewed as the heart and soul of a defense, and there are plenty of great ones in the Big 12.
There are returners such as Oklahoma State’s Nick Martin and Texas Tech’s Ben Roberts. But the conference also boasts newcomers such as Arizona’s Jacob Manu and Utah’s Karene Reid.
Here are the top 10 linebackers in the Big 12 entering the 2024 season:
Big 12 position rankings: Quarterback | Running back | Wide receiver | Tight end
Big 12 linebacker rankings for 2024 season
More: Which Oklahoma State football game is most important this season?
Pierre spent the first two seasons of his career at Florida and three seasons at Texas Tech before he transferred to UCF in January.
The 6-foot- 2 linebacker recorded 66 tackles (1.5 for loss) and recovered a fumble as a senior last season. That was good enough to earn an All-Big 12 honorable mention.
Despite only going 6-7 (3-6 Big 12) last season, Central Florida’s defense allowed the fifth-fewest points per game (25.8). It now adds Pierre, who should contribute right away alongside fellow transfer linebacker Deshawn Pace.
9. Kaleb Elarms-Orr, TCU
Elarms-Orr spent the first three seasons of his career at Cal before he transferred to TCU in December.
The 6-2 linebacker recorded 92 tackles (3.5 for loss) and six pass deflections last season as a redshirt sophomore. He earned a Pac-12 second team selection for his strong play.
Elarms-Orr shouldn’t have any trouble adjusting to Big 12 play with TCU. He’ll form a strong linebacker duo with Namdi Obiazor.
8. Matt Jones, Baylor
Jones is back for his sixth and final season with Baylor.
The 6-4 linebacker has 33 career starts under his belt. He recorded 82 tackles (11.5 tackles for loss) and three sacks as a redshirt senior in 2023, which earned him an All-Big 12 honorable mention.
Jones was one of the few bright spots on a…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/big-12-football-linebacker-rankings-110343079.html
Author : The Oklahoman
Publish date : 2024-08-05 11:03:43
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