2015 Big 12 Position Rankings: Linebackers

No. 7: Texas Tech

Nov 29, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders gang tackles Baylor Bears running back Shock Linwood (32) during the first half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The Red Raiders are holding on to the seven spot by the skin of their teeth.

Micah Awe will man the middle this year, and will be stepping up after only starting four games last year. That being said, he also finished third on the team in tackles.

Sam Atoe and Malik Jenkins figure to get the starting nods early in the season, but Defensive Coordinator David Gibbs may turn to Dakota Allen or D’Vonta Hinton early for extra help. Although Mike Mitchell was named to the rush end position, he might be too much of a talent to keep off the field, and can come in as a lifeline if need.