Texas A&M Football: Top positions to watch at Aggie Spring Game
By Jeff Shull
![(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/c994401d2aa0f4774c9bb605429e69462b6ddac6b3f0a1d2e95609393dedeefc.jpg)
2. Linebackers
The Aggie defense will go as their linebackers go, who have a chance to be among the best in the Southeastern Conference. Otaro Alaka and Tyrel Dodson return for their senior and junior seasons, respectively, and were impact players for the Aggies in the 2017 season.
As a sophomore, Dodson led the Aggies in tackles with 104, ranked fifth in the SEC in total tackles and assisted tackles, and was ninth in the SEC with three interceptions. He was all over the field for Texas A&M and really popped on the TV screen anytime you watched them.
Alaka was third on the team with 78 tackles and led the way with 12 tackles for loss. He also came alive as a pass rusher in 2017, sacking the quarterback 5.5 times after only recording one in his first three seasons.
The Aggies also have some young blood who could see playing time in 2018. Prized 2017 recruit Anthony Hines (No. 2 at his position) and fellow four-star classmates Santino Marchiol (redshirted) and Devodrick (Buddy) Johnson are all primed to contribute this season. There will be open competition for the spot next to Dodson and Alaka, but plenty of talent to fill the spot.