With a strong need for offensive and defensive linemen, Baylor ventured out to secure those positions by signing nine linemen among their 19 recruits.

"This class was about filling needs," Baylor coach Art Briles said. "We always start up front with the O-line and D-line, and this is without a doubt the strongest O-line and D-line class that's been put together at Baylor in many years.

"Defensively, you just can't get enough guys that can play up front on defense. So we're always going to be trying to find those high-motor guys that are physical and tough up front, and we did this year."

The four offensive linemen the Bears signed were Desmine Hilliard (Dallas Lincoln), Spencer Drango (Cedar Park, Texas), LaQuan McGowan (Boys Ranch, Amarillo, Texas) and Pat Colbert (Kilgore, Texas).

The five defensive linemen added were Donald Bryant (Daingerfield, Texas), Beau Blackshear (Midway High, Waco, Texas), Nick Johnson (Navarro College, Texas), Trevor Clemons-Valdez (Copperas Cove, Texas) and Suleiman Masumbuko (Trinity High, Euless, Texas).

The Bears went into last season already thin on both lines, and then they lost their two best linemen via graduation -- offensive tackle Danny Watkins and defensive tackle Phil Taylor.

"We added some quality players that are quality people who have the ability to press for playing time immediately," Briles said. "That's what's really exciting about the class in general."

TOP OF THE CLASS

RB B.J. Allen (Tatum, Texas, High) -- He is one of the dynamic players Art Briles has signed in his three years at Baylor. One of the top five 300-meter hurdlers in the nation, Allen is an athlete who will be used as either a running back or inside receiver.

OL LaQuan McGowan (Boys Ranch, Amarillo, Texas) -- At 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds, McGowan is one of the biggest players in the state of Texas. He also is so mobile and agile that he can dunk a basketball. The Bears hope to use McGowan's size to protect QB Robert Griffin.

OL Spencer Drango (Cedar Park, Texas, High) -- He is a 6-6, 285-pounder whom coach Art Briles said "has a great presence about him." An explosive player, Drango will be asked to use his guile and power to help the Bears continue with their high-powered offensive attack.

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