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The heart and soul of the Tech defense is LB Lawrence Flugence. So, especially while our o-line continues to gel, the return of Kris Briggs will be crucual in neutralizing him. Briggs sat out last week but is expected to play this week. He's gained size and strength in the offseason as he prepared for the move from tailback to fullback, and he's an underrated blocker. He'll be very important, not so much for picking up blitzes (although he'll help there, too), but mostly for seeking out Flugence and delivering a blow when Kincade or Charles is looking for running room.

Even more important than Briggs will be Judson Davis and Sterling Harris. The Red Raiders have pretty good speed coming off the edge (like DE Aaron Hunt), and Harris and Davis will have to be able to push the ends outside and then hit a linebacker in the hole.

And the tight ends had better block well, too.

The secret weapon for this team against Tech -- and all season -- will be Cash Birdwell and his staff of trainers. We have some talent in some spots, but depth is minimal at most positions. The trainers will make or break this season.