Texas Tech continued to bolster a big reputation ahead of the season, with three Red Raiders eyed for the Nagurski Trophy.
Preseason award watch lists are helping to count down the days leading up to opening weekend in college football. And with each passing list, it seems that Texas Tech always finds itself represented.
That was especially the case following the release of those under consideration for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, which is presented to the sport's most outstanding defensive player, regardless of their spot on the field.
The prestigious trophy made its first stop in Lubbock after being bestowed upon phenomenal linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, which was one of several awards he racked up during a sensational final campaign.
Now, three more Red Raiders saw their names among those that are projected to be the best across the nation, as Texas Tech continues to cement its identity as a defensive powerhouse.
Adding another piece to an already stellar preseason resume, tackle AJ Holmes Jr. was one of the trio tabbed to the watch list.
Holmes was previously honored as the preseason Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and has seemingly received every other accolade ahead of his latest outing with the Red Raiders.
It is easy to see why after an All-American campaign just one year ago with 38 tackles and 4.5 sacks after stepping in to relieve an injured Skyler Gil-Howard. And Holmes is only presumed to get better in his farewell season.
Not to be overshadowed, linebacker Ben Roberts also made the cut as he looks to take up the mantle of leader at the talented position after the departure of Rodriguez to the NFL.
The new tradition of bruising linebackers in Lubbock is very much alive this season, with not only the reigning Big 12 Championship MVP in Roberts but also standout transfer Austin Romaine and staple John Curry holding things down.
The last but certainly not least of the triplets eyed for the trophy was corner Brice Pollock. He emerged on the scene last season as one of the most lethal pass defenders and had an elite knack for hawking errant passes, with a total of five interceptions that ranked among the highest in the nation.
Out of 68 total selections to the watch list, the Big 12 sent 10 of its best, and Texas Tech accounted for more than any other program in the league besides BYU.
The Red Raiders and Cougars both had three honorees, which tied for second-most in the country with Miami, Notre Dame and Oregon. Only defending national champion Indiana had more on the initial list with four Hoosiers represented.
Rodriguez set the precedent for Texas Tech to contend and capture the nation's most lauded awards and now three more Red Raiders will have a serious chance to make it a trend this upcoming year.
