Big 12 football power rankings: Is TCU’s Namdi Obiazor a top-tier linebacker?
No position on defense has had to change more in college football the last few years than linebackers.
With nearly every program running some version of the spread offense, it’s more important now that linebackers can play in space as opposed to the past where backers were known as slower, hard-hitting players in the middle.
The evolution of the position has led to smaller, but more agile players that can play sideline to sideline and can more than hold their own in pass coverage. In many ways, the Big 12 led the way with the evolution as defensive coordinators had to adjust quicker than most to the spread and air raid offenses.
The Big 12 returns many of its all-conference selections from last season while also returning a number of rising seniors looking to make their mark in their final season.
The Star-Telegram’s Big 12 power rankings continue with a look at some of the top linebackers in the conference:
Keaton Thomas, Baylor
Breakdown: A first team all-conference selection last season, Thomas formed a dynamic duo with Matt Jones in the middle of Baylor’s defense. Despite playing most of the season with a cast on his arm, Thomas finished with 114 tackles, seven for a loss, 2.5 sacks, three QB hurries and an interception returned 35 yards for a touchdown. It was one of the best individual defensive seasons in program history.
Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech
Breakdown: The Red Raiders struggled on defense last year, ranking near the bottom of the country in scoring defense. But despite the unit’s overall lack of production Rodriguez still earned first team honors after he produced 127 total tackles (77 solo), 10.5 tackles for loss, including 5.0 sacks. It was the most tackles by a Texas Tech player since 2002.
Keyshaun Elliott, Arizona State
Breakdown: The Sun Devils had high expectations for Elliott after he had over 100 tackles at New Mexico State in 2023. He lived up those expectations by becoming a second team all-conference selection after being one of the most productive players on the ASU defense. Elliott finished with 65 tackles, two sacks and an interception.
Austin Romaine, Kansas State
Breakdown: Kansas State has a well-earned reputation for developing running backs, offensive linemen and linebackers with Romaine looking like the next great K-State linebacker. A second team all-conference pick last season, Romaine led the team with 96 tackles, two sacks, three forced fumbles and two pass breakups while playing over 600 snaps. Romaine was the second highest graded linebacker in the country according to Pro Football Focus.
Namdi Obiazor, TCU
Breakdown: Obiazor had a solid season under Andy Avalos with 81 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks and his first career interception. Obiazor receiving an extra year of eligibility is a huge boost for the Horned Frogs as Obiazor aims to prove to NFL scouts he can excel as a full-time linebacker at the next level.
Jake Golday, Cincinnati
Breakdown: Golday had no issue making the move up from FCS to the Power Four level as the Central Arkansas transfer earned honorable mention all-conference honors after finishing second on the Bearcats with 58 tackles and seven tackles for a loss. Golday could have an even bigger season in his second year with Cincinnati.
Isaiah Glasker, BYU
Breakdown: BYU’s defense was among the best in the country due to players like Glasker. A number of outlets awarded Glasker with all-conference honors while the coaches selected him as an honorable mention pick after he produced 70 tackles, 3.5 sacks and three interceptions. Glasker’s versatility rushing the passer and playing in coverage should make him one of the best linebackers once again in 2025.
Lander Barton, Utah
Breakdown: The Utes always play good defense and 2024 was no exception. Barton led the way for Utah with a team-high 72 tackles, five stops for loss plus six passes defended including two interceptions. The former freshman All-American will look to have his best season yet as a senior.
