TCU linebackers receive top-10 ranking
6/11/2008 12:00:00 AM | Football
June 11, 2008
FORT WORTH, Texas -- TCU's linebacker unit has been ranked as the 10th-best in the nation by Athlon.
Athlon also tabbed linebacker Jason Phillips, safety Stephen Hodge and center Blake Schlueter as first-team All-Mountain West Conference selections. Linebacker Robert Henson, cornerback Rafael Priest, defensive lineman James Vess and offensive tackle Marshall Newhouse were second-team picks.
Linebacker units ranked ahead of TCU were USC, Florida, Kansas, Missouri, Ohio State, Miami (Ohio), Wisconsin, Virginia and Cal.
Phillips is a preseason All-American and three-time All-Mountain West Conference selection. The senior from Waller, Texas, was named by Dave Campbell's 2008 Texas Football as the state's Defensive Player of the Year and Best Linebacker. He is also on the watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded to the nation's top defensive player.
A native of Longview, Texas, Henson has been an honorable-mention All-MWC pick each of the last three seasons despite starting just three games. His 199 career tackles trail only Phillips (231) among active Frogs.
Daryl Washington will also see significant playing time. The junior from Irving, Texas, totaled 32 stops in a reserve role a year ago while tying for the national lead with three punt blocks.
