There were some big losses at linebacker from last year, but that may not matter so much if the defensive line steps up.  That means there must be good play from DeMarcus Granger, Gerald McCoy, Cory Bennett, Alonzo Dotson and John Williams. Look for Sophomore Austin English to fit into that mix as well, battling with Dotson for a starting spot.

Key games for the "D": The usual slug fest in Dallas, the Texas Tech game in Lubbock and facing a high-powered offense from the OSU Cowboys.