[College Sports News]

Tech returns 19 players who started in the Gator Bowl, so there are not many position battles this spring, but one of them is at the "sam" outside linebacker position. Last year's starter there, senior Gary Guyton, moved to the other outside linebacker slot at "will" to replace graduated KaMichael Hall, so sophomore Shane Bowen and redshirt freshman Anthony Barnes have been working there.

"Shane is working with the ones right now, but I think it's still a close battle," said Gailey.

Bowen, from Pickerington, Ohio, earned playing time as a true freshman last year, when he was the Jackets' top backup at linebacker while also working on special teams.

"Consistency is the key at that position, and really, at any position on our defense," said Gailey. "You've got to know your responsibility and make sure you fit where you're supposed to fit every play. We're so multiple on defense, so you've got to know what you're doing and go get it done. I would think that's the key for Shane. I'd like for him to be a little bit bigger and a little bit more physical. I think time in the weight room will help that, but the key is consistency."

Barnes, from Cartersville, Ga., is a talented athlete who is still adjusting to the linebacker position after playing safety in high school

"He's just got a lot to learn," said Gailey. "He's come a long way, but he had a long way to go, so there's still some more work to do."

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