Texas Tech football: Positions that might take a step back in 2019

LUBBOCK, TX - NOVEMBER 10: Antoine Wesley #4 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders makes the catch against Kris Boyd #2 of the Texas Longhorns during the 2nd half of the game on November 10, 2018 at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. Texas defeated Texas Tech 41-34. (Photo by John Weast/Getty Images) /

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Defensive tackle

Anchoring the interior of the Red Raider defensive line this year will be senior Broderick Washington, a potential NFL Draft pick in 2020. But after that, Tech has a huge question to answer about who will help fill the shoes of the recently departed Joseph Wallace, who has entered the transfer portal.

Last year, Wallace was a key at nose tackle for the Red Raiders. The 315-pounder recorded 37 tackles, second-most of any defensive lineman on the team.

Stepping in for him could be 310-pound junior Nick McCann. The Texarkana native had 24 tackles in 12 games played last year.

Redshirt freshman Jaylon Hutchings may also be called upon to play some snaps this year. The 295-pounder played in only three games last year, making two tackles.

In the 2019 signing class, Tech did not sign any defensive tackles. Thus, it would not be shocking to see a JUCO or late grad transfer added to the roster before the season begins. But if someone is unable to fill Wallace’s shoes and give the team a second quality tackle in the middle of the defense, the middle of the defensive line could be less of a strength this fall than it was last year.

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