Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez was named The Associated Press Big 12 defensive player of the year Thursday, when he was among seven first-team picks on the all-conference team from the playoff-bound Red Raiders.

BYU’s Kalani Sitake was named the Big 12’s top coach and Cougars running back LJ Martin, the league’s leading rusher, was picked as offensive player of the year. Both of BYU’s losses this season are to Texas Tech, including in the conference championship game last Saturday.

The Red Raiders (12-1) won their first Big 12 title and have a first-round bye in the 12-team College Football Playoff before playing in the Orange Bowl on Jan. 1. Unanimous picks Rodriguez and defensive end David Bailey are among five first-teamers on defense from Tech, joined by tackles Lee Hunter

See Full Page