2014 Texas Football Schedule Preview: Baylor Bears

Oct 19, 2013; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears linebacker Eddie Lackey (5) and linebacker Bryce Hager (44) sack Iowa State Cyclones quarterback Sam B. Richardson (12) during the game at Floyd Casey Stadium. The Bears defeated the Cyclones 71-7. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Linebackers

Eddie Lackey was a solid linebacker for Baylor. He seemed to be in the right place at the right time and was a sure-tackler. His departure leaves the door open for the next guy. The question is: who is that next guy?

Bryce Hager can fill the role, if he can stay healthy. Hager has over 200 career tackles for the Bears. Should he stay healthy, Hager will be the leader of the defense.

Watch out for Aiavion Edwards. He saw limited duty last year, but has the speed to cover backs out of the backfield, or athletic tight ends working across the middle of the field. Baylor has talent at this position; it’s just young and inexperienced.

Texas will want to try and get blockers to the second level. If Texas can run the ball against this front seven, it will shorten the game and keep Petty and the Baylor offense on the sidelines.